Young, budding artists have been offered the chance to become a character in new artwork created to support Forestry and Land Scotland’s Into the Wildwoods learning resource – by drawing their own Mesolithic map.

The two lucky artists – apprentice Mesolithic Map Makers – will be turned into a cartoon illustration and make their own appearance in the distant past.

Their maps will also be professionally reproduced by artist Alex Leonard. 

Into the Wildwoods looks at the ways in which our Mesolithic ancestors understood the complex habitats and ecosystems in which they hunted and gathered. It’s an engaging and fun way to help us understand our own place within the natural world. 

Matt Ritchie, FLS archaeologist, said;  

“Archaeology is a fascinating subject that captures the imagination of young and old alike.  

“What we’ve done with Into the Wildwoods is provide a storyline and a mix of creative activities and discussion ideas to help anyone with an interest in our ancient past discover the world of the Mesolithic hunter-gatherers and explore the interconnected ideas of habitats, natural resources and seasonal change. 

“It explores the themes of cognitive maps and story maps, connected landscapes, seasonal resources, special places, movement and travel, and different scales. The resource is available online and will provide an unusual topic for anyone looking to keep their kids busy at home. 

“We’re looking for young artists to depict an imaginary landscape and the various resources that can be found in it. It also needs to include a short caption describing their imaginary tribe and the route that they would take to find food and resources to survive – and to avoid the dangers! 

“We don’t mind if it’s drawn, painted or a photograph of put together from things found in the woods, such as sticks and stones – even feathers and bones. So get creative!” 

Anyone between the ages of 8 and 13 who reckons they could be an apprentice Mesolithic Map Maker, should send a photograph of their map to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by 1st of June.

Notes to editors

1. Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) manages forests and land owned by Scottish Minsters in a way that supports and enables economically sustainable forestry; conserves and enhances the environment; delivers benefits for people and nature; and supports Scottish Ministers in their stewardship of Scotland's national forests and land.
2. forestryandland.gov.scot | www.twitter.com/ForestryLS
3. Media enquiries to Paul Munro, Media Manager, Forestry and Land Scotland Media Office 0131 370 5059 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.