The Pier, The Dolphin, The Mermaid and many more buildings have been brought to life thanks to a new colouring book created by the Council.
Produced as part of the Townscape Heritage project, funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Cleethorpes artist Vanessa Whittleton has brought iconic parts of the seaside resort to life.
Having only started her artistic journey three years ago, she is self-taught after a long career in nursing. Learning mostly from online tutorials, she specialises in drawing on a digital canvas.
“Colourful Cleethorpes: A Townscape to Treasure” gives artists of all ages the chance to let their creativity run wild and create the seaside resort of their dreams.
Over recent weeks, the Council have helped to inspire more budding artists by donating 4646 books to local charities and organisations such as NAViGO, Horizon, AGE UK and Women’s Aid.
In a post on their social media, NAViGO said: “We’re loving the Colourful Cleethorpes: A Townscape to Treasure colouring books donated to us as part of the Cleethorpes Townscape Heritage Programme!
“These books feature iconic Cleethorpes landmarks and have been a huge hit with our service users.”
Speaking about her pride when she was first asked to produce the book, artist Vanessa said: “I felt honoured, excited, and pleased.
“It just shows you should believe in yourself, because once I got started, I really enjoyed the work. The images came together well, and I was able to choose some of the sights I felt happy drawing. I learned so much; it was a very positive experience and gave me purpose. I felt grateful and honoured to be involved.”
She added: “When I first saw the finished product, I felt so happy and proud that I had completed it. It was amazing that we had put it together in such a short time. It made me realise that I am capable and gave me a real confidence boost. I was given one to keep, and I don’t know how many times I looked through it that day.”
To ensure she left her own mark on the book, Vanessa was allowed to create her own scene for the centre page and was thrilled with the outcome.
“It incorporates many elements from the other scenes in the book, along with a full view of Cleethorpes from the end of the North Promenade right through to the Fitties beach. It’s not realistic—more of a design or collage, something that I like doing.”
Councillor Hayden Dawkins, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Heritage and Visitor Economy, said: “This book epitomises everything that is great about Cleethorpes.
“From the promenade to the Humberston Fitties, there is plenty to enjoy and I can’t wait to see some of the amazing creations that will come from it.”
He added: “Being able to donate some books to local organisations has also been a great way of giving back to the community for their help in the Townscape Heritage project.” To learn more about the colouring books and the TH Project, visit Cleethorpes Townscape Heritage Programme | NELC
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