About Mr. Tim.Map Artist, Cyclist,and Maker in Japan
Using real geographic data to create handcrafted city maps, marathon artwork, and cycling route art inspired by places and journeys.
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Hello, I’m Mr. Tim, a British map artist and cyclist living in Japan.
Originally from Birmingham, UK, I moved to Japan in 2004 and have worked in international schools ever since. Much of my creative work is inspired by the cities, coastlines, mountains, and cycling routes I explore throughout Japan.
Using real geographic data, I design and create handcrafted laser cut maps, city artwork, marathon maps, and custom cycling route maps from my workshop in Kanagawa. In 2026, three of my wooden map artworks were selected as finalists in the xTool × Creema Collaboration Artwork Contest and exhibited at HandMade In Japan Fes' (HMJ) in Tokyo.
Over the years, The Magic Crayons has grown from a small classroom project into a creative studio producing:
- Handcrafted laser cut city maps and wall art
- Custom cycling and marathon maps created from GPX route data
- Travel and location inspired artwork
- Digital illustrations of vehicles, boats, aircraft, and landmarks
- Educational resources used by teachers around the world
Everything you see in this shop, from artwork and videos to teaching resources and custom commissions, is designed and created by me here in Japan.
Thank you for visiting The Magic Crayons.
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My Journey
I’ve worked as an IB Computing & Design teacher, ESL specialist, elementary librarian, and technology coordinator. No matter the role, I’ve always used creativity to help students learn and express themselves.
Outside the classroom, you’ll likely find me cycling through Kanagawa, Tokyo, Shizuoka, or Yamanashi, where many of my wood-map designs begin. I photograph routes, sketch landmarks, and turn them into handcrafted pieces in my workshop.
If you enjoy cycling, art, teaching, or all three — you’re in the right place.
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The Magic Crayons (Music) — A Short History
Before the illustrations and wood art, The Magic Crayons began as a group of international teachers writing and performing original children’s songs for schools across Japan.
The music is still available today, and many teachers continue to use it in their classrooms.
Meet The Original Magic Crayons Band
The Magic Crayons began as a group of international teachers writing and performing original ESL songs for young learners in Japan. Today the music continues to be enjoyed worldwide.
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Bradley
Bradley has taught children in Japan since 2005 and brings creativity and humour to every classroom. As a songwriter and keyboard player, he helped shape the fun, energetic sound of The Magic Crayons.
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Dave
Originally from the U.S., Dave has lived in Japan since his teenage years and teaches English to young learners in Tokyo. A guitarist and vocalist with The Magic Crayons, he brought energy and humour to the band’s performances. He also enjoys movies and time with friends.
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Dave
Dave has lived in Japan since 2004, teaching kindergarten children by day and performing lively educational songs by night. His enthusiasm and guitar-driven melodies helped define the band’s early sound.
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Rachel
Rachel has taught English in Japan since 2008 and brings warmth and energy to both the classroom and the stage. Her bright vocals helped bring many Magic Crayons songs to life.
