Spiros Staridas wearing 3D glasses in a creative workspace with books and a globe, representing the artistic and scientific spirit of Staridas Geography.

About

Welcome to my About page, where I share the story of my professional journey. Here you can explore my work experience, academic background, key skills, and software proficiency.

Through this overview, you’ll get to know how my passion for cartography, design, and visual storytelling has shaped my career and guided me toward creating meaningful, visually engaging maps that connect science and creativity.

Get to know me

My Work Experience

I founded Staridas Geography #MakingMapsPretty in 2006 to turn my academic education and passion for cartography into a full-time creative practice. Since then, I’ve been working independently as a cartographer and map designer, creating maps that bring together science, design, and storytelling, transforming complex geographic data into clear, visually engaging narratives that reveal new ways of seeing and understanding the world.

Over the years, I’ve collaborated with a wide range of clients and organizations, delivering numerous cartographic and design projects with consistency and creativity. Each collaboration has strengthened my expertise and deepened my understanding of how thoughtful map design can communicate complex ideas effectively. This long-standing professional journey reflects not only my commitment to quality and innovation but also the trust and satisfaction of those I’ve had the privilege to work with.

My Academic Education

My studies trace a path from the natural sciences to design and digital media. I began with a Bachelor of Science in Geology and Geoenvironment at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, where I built a strong foundation in earth systems and spatial thinking. I continued with a Master of Science in Engineering Project Management at the University of Leeds, learning how to structure complex projects and deliver technical work with precision. Most recently, my Master of Arts in Graphic Arts & Multimedia at the Hellenic Open University allowed me to merge my scientific background with design and visual communication, a combination that now defines my approach to cartography and map design.

  • Graphic Arts & Multimedia MA

    • Hellenic Open University
    • School of Applied Arts and Sustainable Design
    • Master of Arts in Graphic Arts & Multimedia
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  • Engineering Project Management MSc (Eng)

    • University of Leeds UK
    • School of Civil Engineering
    • Master of Science in Engineering Project Management
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  • Geology & Geoenvironment BSc

    • National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
    • School of Sciences
    • Bachelor of Science in Geology and Geoenvironment
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My Skills and Core Competencies

With a multidisciplinary foundation in cartography, design, and geospatial technologies, I bring together creative and analytical approaches to transform data into meaningful visual narratives. My expertise spans the full spectrum of map design, GIS, data visualization, and project management, supported by a strong understanding of user experience and effective communication. These competencies enable me to craft thoughtful, impactful solutions that bridge geography, design, and technology.

  • Cartography & Map Design

    • Thematic & Reference Map Design
    • Atlas Design & Layout
    • Map Typography
    • Color Theory & Management
    • Storytelling with Maps

  • Geographical Information Systems (GIS)

    • Geoprocessing
    • GIS Workflows
    • Spatial Data Processing and Analysis
    • Remote Sensing

  • WebGIS & Frontend Web Development

    • Interactive Web Map Applications
    • UI/UX & Usability
    • HTML/CSS/JavaScript

  • Design & Visualization

    • Graphic Design
    • Visual Communication & Storytelling
    • Data Visualization & Infographics
    • Conceptualization & Art Direction
    • Semiology

  • Project Management

    • Project Organization & Management
    • Workflow Design
    • Value Management
    • Risk Management
    • Procurement Management

My Software Proficiency

I use a wide range of design, mapping, and web tools and technologies that support every stage of my work, from creating detailed maps and visuals to building interactive web experiences. Each tool adds its own strength, helping me bring together creativity and precision in every project.