Maps are our finest window into times long past. They allow us to dream, to learn and to understand the world that preceded us. Some of the maps capture spirit of adventure, of discovery and the promise of new beging. They register the triumph of navigators and explorers. Maps are not only to instruct but they also reflect the artistic expression of the times in which they were created. They are as attractive as paintings and prints, and they are significantly more interesting in that that they display man's knowledge of his universe. Many people love to look at old maps of places they have visited, place they lived in and places they are curious about.

My name is Mark Sciepura. I was born in Poland. I lived in the country durning the time of communist dictatorship and total isolation from the outside world. At the very young age I started to study and design maps. Most of them were of the places I would visit in the future. When I was fifteen because of the political activities against the governament I was lucky enough to leave Poland. I went to Germany and later to the United States. Since than I have visited many exciting and exotic places in Europe, Asia, Africa and North and South America. Through the years I have been involved in many different ventures in as many diferent locations but my passion for maps never left. During my travels in Brazil I found basic map designs burned on leather. I have found a person who made them and with time learned his techniques. Over the years I have improved my burning style, created new designs, experimented with different painting techniques and the result are the maps I make today.