There are several ways that you can integrate these maps into your discussion of the exhibit and make a cross-curricular link to geography.

• As you look at the work of an individual artist, check their state map to see where they live. Do they live close to the coast? Does this seem to influence their work? Do they live in a rural or urban area? Does this seem to have an influence? Consult other maps, including topographical maps, and resources to see what else you can discover about the area where the artist lives. Can you think of other ways that the artist’s work might be affected by his/her home? Are there natural resources available where the artist lives that the artist uses or that are connected to his/her work?
  

• As you explore the work of artists in one of the virtual galleries, see if you can find the flag for each artist’s home on the regional map. Can you identify differences in the work of the artists that might be related to the place where they live? For example, most of the basket makers use natural resources that they gather themselves. Are there different resources available in different regions? How does that affect the style of baskets? Find specific examples. Are there basket making materials available in your region?
  
• Many of the wood artists use wood from their own locale. Explore the different works and the regions where they are made. How does the availability of different kinds of wood affect the work of the artists? What lumber is available in your region? How is it used?
  
• The Natural State website focuses on how artists who live in various regions of South Carolina utilize the natural resources of their region to create art. Even if you are not from South Carolina, you might visit the site and consider the regions of your own state, the natural resources available each, and the way that artists in your state use natural resources. http://www.knowitall.org/naturalstate/index.cfm