Let's talk about mermaids: Berlie Doherty, Tamsin Rosewell and The Seamaiden's Odyssey

Mermaids come with some watery baggage, which raises the question: just how does one do a fresh take on this iconic mythical creature?

This was the challenge facing Berlie Doherty and Tamsin Rosewell - a writer and illustrator team. Find out their answers to this question in today’s episode of Mythmakers where they’ll be diving into the reinvention of mermaids in their fascinating conversation with Julia Golding. Did you know there are legends of inland mermaids? And where exactly is the best place to be a mermaid in all the fantasy worlds?

If you want to find out more about this intriguing topic after listening to the discussion, you can visit Berlie's website at https://berliedoherty.com/new-book-the-seamaidens-odyssey/ and follow Tamsin on Instagram at @hobs_lantern.

If you want a signed copy of their book, check out the wonderful https://www.madhatterbookshop.co.uk

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

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0:10 Underwater Kingdom Journey

2:47 Childhood Inspirations

4:20 Illustrative Styles

7:27 Story Overview

11:43 Sea Maiden Concept

14:12 Evolution of the Sea Maiden

17:39 Themes of Sisterhood

20:44 Collaboration Process

25:27 Artistic Techniques

34:49 Tips for Aspiring Creatives

39:21 Imagining Fantasy Worlds

Welcome to Season 6 of Mythmakers!

Mythmakers is the podcast for fantasy fans and creatives brought to you by the Oxford Centre for Fantasy. We will be exploring fantasy old and new, look at what went into writing your favourite series, learn tips from the experts, and discuss new books, TV shows and films.

Mythmakers is brought to you from the city of Oxford - home to many of the world's greatest fantasy writers, from J.R.R. Tolkien and Middle-earth, to C.S. Lewis, creator of Narnia, and the grandfather of them all, Lewis Carroll with his Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. The Oxford story continues with outstanding contemporary writers finding inspiration among the ancient buildings, labyrinthine libraries, and gentle river meadows.

Ready to jump down the rabbit hole with us to find your next mythmaker? Visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org/