I love seeing purposefully placed clouds on maps. I think they are one of the best ways to add energy and drama. Whenever I get a chance to add them, I jump at it.
Currently, I am working on a map of Viking exploration. I am interested in their settlement at L’Anse aux Meadows from 1000 years ago. I thought clouds would be a great way to add some thematic tension and mystery to the map.
Below, I explored both static and animated cloud options.
STATIC MAP
Here is the Viking map pre-clouds
![Viking Basemap Viking Basemap](https://www.esri.com/arcgis-blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Viking01newest.jpg)
Here it is with clouds
![Viking Static Cloud Viking Static Cloud](https://www.esri.com/arcgis-blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Viking-Static-Cloud.jpg)
Where did I get that cloud layer? NOAA. If you have never been to this site, it is a must!
Thematically, I liked how the clouds created a barrier between the world known by the Vikings, and the world yet to be explored.
ANIMATED MAP
As I discussed in this blog about animation, adding movement to a map can make it more appealing and attractive. Instead of grabbing 1 cloud layer from NOAA, I grabbed 40, and made an animation. Thematically, I like how it makes the map come alive, and makes the weather look like it is pushing against further Viking exploration to the west.
![Viking Animated Clouds Viking Animated Clouds](https://www.esri.com/arcgis-blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/VikingCloudsvSmall-min.gif)
Two simple examples, and hopefully ideas for you to consider when making your next map.
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