Google Maps has changed the way we move around the world. More than just a map, it offers photographic views of roads and streets; directions for walking, driving, and biking; routing options via public transportation; and much more. The unique upside-down teardrop design of the Google Maps Pin was designed to be both recognizable and functional, precisely indicating a location without obscuring the surrounding area. Originally, the pin featured a black dot at its center, which served as a focal point indicating the precise location on the map. Over time, the dot was removed, further simplifying the pin while still retaining its recognizability.
Pirouette: Turning Points in Design, January 26, 2025–November 15, 2025
Gallery label from This Is for Everyone: Design Experiments for the Common Good , February 14, 2015–January 31, 2016
Google Maps is a popular Internet-based mapping program that offers not only street maps but also photographic views of city streets; directions for walking, driving, and hiking; routing options via public transportation; and business locations. It also powers many applications and services offered by third parties. The unique upside-down teardrop design of the Google Maps Pin was created to be both recognizable and functional, precisely indicating a location without obscuring the area nearby. This ubiquitous digital icon bleeds into real life in the work of artists such as Aram Bartholl, who creates physical Google Maps Pins to mark sites in the material world.
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Graphic design
Visual communication through the use of type, space, image, and color. Examples include printed materials like posters, books, and album covers, as well as film title sequences and digital works such as websites and interactive software.
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