The goal of geocodedArt is to use digital map technology to add context to fine art, and to use fine art to illuminate geography.

What's Included

There are two mandatory criteria for inclusion in this collection, and two flexible criteria. The mandatory are that a) the image is a recognizable depiction of specific location (not just "Tuscan countryside"); and b) the image be in the public domain. The flexible criteria are that the image be beautiful, and/or be of an interesting place. A particular strength in either of the flexible criteria can compensate for weakness in the other. The images are almost exclusively oil paintings; there are a few water colors and lithographs that meet the criteria. In evaluating the vast number of drawings and etchings available, the principle applied was to ask whether the image adds more to the appreciation of the site than a good photograph would.

What's Not Included

Images of some of the most familiar sites in the world are not included (e.g. Big Ben, Yosemite Valley). If the sites are so familiar that a particular painting would not add to the appreciation of the site, then it has not been included. The goal is to bring appreciation to less well known sites and images.