Meet Beth, the illustrator of our ‘Under the Sea’ trail

We are sponsoring Norwich Science Festival 2024, a celebration of science and technology, and this year we are hosting a free ‘Under the Sea’ Trail, where families can discover ‘Great Britain’s Barrier Reef’ – the Cromer Shoal Chalk Beds! This family adventure reveals the secrets of the seaside, from much-loved local seals to the never-before-seen purple sponge, the Parpal Dumplin’! Come along and enjoy the trail, from now until Saturday 24th February – and pick up your free map from Langleys.

The illustrator of our self-led poster trail is the brilliant Beth Lester from Norwich. We caught up with her to find out about her and what she is looking forward to…

Can you tell us about yourself?

I’ve recently graduated in illustration at NUA. I have a particular interest in children focused illustrations with a nature, wildlife and natural history focus. I love illustrating and this is the best thing I’ve done so far working on this trail – I am so grateful to Norwich Science Festival!

Can you tell us about the process for illustrating the posters people will see on our Under the Sea trail in February?

Yes, I do it by hand and use alcohol markers as they blend so nicely and give even coverage. I photograph and then edit them digitally.

What is your favourite creature from our trail?

The sea slug as it is so vibrant – people won’t believe that we have them in Cromer as its pink and purple! The Tompot Blenny is a very strange fish too I think people will like.

Can people then go to Cromer and see any of the sealife for themselves from the trail?

Obviously some things are hidden but people can see things like seals, starfish, crabs and a common tern too, which are all featured in the trail.

What is your favourite thing to do?

I love family walks in the woods and I love animals – deer and rabbits. I’m a massive fan of dinosaurs too!

Will you come and do the trail?

I will definitely come along and will be there on the first day it launches as I can’t wait to see the reaction of the visitors at Chantry Place.

To find out more about our trail this February, click here Chantry Place to host ‘Under the Sea Trail’ this February – Chantry Place

To find out more about Beth follow her on Instagram: @beths.sketches  or visit https://bethanyannlester1.wixsite.com/bethssketches