Bio & Rationale
Anna Markula is a Brisbane-based illustrator and surface pattern designer who works under the name Girl and the Deep Blue Sea. A former ecologist, she shifted from science to art after having her daughter, chasing a life where creativity and nature collide. That background shows up everywhere in her work: vibrant tropical scenes, ocean-inspired motifs, and bold patterns that celebrate the natural world with energy and flair.
Anna’s illustrations have appeared across swimwear, fashion, children’s books, and even environmental signage. But whether the canvas is a page, a billboard, or a bikini, the vibe is the same — playful, tropical, and full of colour. She draws influence from coral reefs, beach walks, sparkly details in nature, and even the rhythms of fun dance music. There’s always a sense of celebration in her pieces, like nature itself throwing a party.
Aether showcased Anna's piece Sand Shapes on our NZ Hazy IPA. The piece takes its cue from the quirky trails left in sand at low tide by tiny snails. To Anna, those marks felt like nature sketching abstract art, and she transformed them into a bold, wiggly design that practically shouts summer. With a bright beach palette and retro 90s surf energy, the artwork mirrors the beer itself — hazy, juicy, and made for sunny days. Together, they capture the carefree joy of a beach session where every detail feels alive.
