Art, Science, and the Sea: Jeanne Walker Harvey On Else Bostelmann's Extraordinary Life

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca
Schulze and author Jeanne Walker Harvey dive into the inspiring
story of Else Bostelmann, the artist who courageously painted the
wonders of the deep sea in the 1930s.


Harvey shares insights from her new picture book biography Elsae
B. In the Sea: The Woman Who Painted the Wonders of the Deep,
which explores Bostelmann's groundbreaking work at the
intersection of art and science. This episode provides a
fascinating look at a pioneering female artist whose work sparked
wonder and advanced marine science, offering valuable lessons
about creativity, conservation, and the power of pursuing your
dreams.


Bostelman fearlessly descended into the ocean depths in a copper
diving helmet to paint the magnificent marine life that scientist
William Beebe was discovering on his expeditions. Her stunning
artwork, published in National Geographic, brought the strange
beauty of the deep sea to the public eye for the first time.


Harvey discusses her meticulous research process, the challenges
of uncovering details about Bostelmann's life, and how she
collaborated with illustrator Melodie Stacey to vividly capture
the undersea world on the page. She also shares her hopes that
Bostelmann's story will inspire young readers to follow their
curiosity, appreciate the natural world, and find the courage to
pursue their own adventures and passions.


Transcription: You can read the
transcription on The Children's Book Review.


Order Copies: Else B. In the Sea: The Woman
Who Painted the Wonders of the Deep on Amazon and Bookshop.org.


Resources: Find Jeanne Walker Harvey and
her books at jeanneharvey.com.


Jeanne Walker Harvey Talks About:


Else Bostelmann's remarkable life and work as an artist
exploring the deep sea

The challenges and joys of researching and writing about
lesser-known historical figures

Collaborating with illustrator Melodie Stacey to bring
Bostelmann's story to life

The intersection of art and science in Bostelmann's paintings
of newly discovered marine life

Bostelmann's courage in diving into the ocean depths to
pursue her art

The impact of Bostelmann's artwork in introducing the wonders
of the deep to the wider world

The importance of inspiring curiosity, creativity, and
conservation in young readers

Encouraging kids to follow their passions and make a
difference, even in small ways

Uncovering and sharing the stories of unsung trailblazers and
role models