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