While surfing the net I came across the above map. It was “created from a reference photo of a real human brain which was used to build the 3d terrain. This digital elevation model was then used to create contour line data, relief shading and to plan where the roads and features should be placed for map compilation.”
http://www.unitseven.co.nz
ART & CARTOGRAPHY 
I love the idea of this, and the brain element is awesome, if only there were an island this shape. Have you ever thought about creating physical 3D Relief maps such as these? They are very localised to Britain, however I am sure you would be able to find some of other global regions http://www.aboveandbeyond.co.uk/Maps,+Guides,+Globes,+Gifts/3D+Relief+Maps/list/f1-f2