Livingmaps Network was started in 2015 by a small group of enthusiasts, none of whom were professional cartographers, but who were interested in challenging the dominant way maps were made, used or thought about and in developing alternative , more democratic and participatory approaches to doing all three. Over these past seven years Living Maps has established itself as a major international network for the theory and practice of participatory counter-mapping, with its own twice yearly online journal, an annual counter mapping festival , a diverse events programme, including workshops. webinars and lectures and a series of innovative community based projects.