Holly Astle is a freelance illustrator, climate activist, and land rights campaigner based in Falmouth, Cornwall. Deeply influenced by her coastal surroundings and love of the natural world, protecting the environment is at the heart of everything she does—whether through her illustrations, which aim to educate and inspire appreciation for nature, or her campaigning work. To find inspiration, Holly can often be found walking the coast path, observing fungi, fauna, and other wildlife. She strives to capture the essence of Cornwall in her work, aiming to evoke a true representation of the landscape and the creatures that call it home.
When did you first pick up a paintbrush?
I’ve been drawing for as long as I can remember! My mum told me a story the other day about when I was tiny and brought her a piece of paper covered in circles and lines. She gave the classic, enthusiastic “Oh, that’s lovely!” before asking, “What is it?” Apparently, I confidently replied, “Worms and blobs.” So, in a way, I suppose I was already capturing the world around me quite accurately! At school, I took a more academic route, but I was always an avid doodler in class. Looking back, I think I was always meant to return to illustration.
What’s the best and worst thing about being a freelance illustrator?
The best thing is the freedom—not knowing where your job will take you next, but being able to steer it in directions that align with your values. I also love working with new and exciting clients, and I definitely get a little thrill every time something big lands in my inbox. The worst part is the instability. You never quite know if the risks you take will pay off or when your next job will come in. There have been dry spells with little to no work, and I’ve caught myself thinking, “Well, I guess that’s it. It was a good run.” But it always turns around—you just have to get comfortable with the ebb and flow.
What’s your process for turning an initial idea into a finished illustration?
These days, I work almost entirely on my iPad, starting with a black-and-white pencil sketch before developing it into a full-colour illustration. Depending on the project, I also like to take time to get outside and gather inspiration from the world around me.
The secret to getting through the process? Lots of tea breaks, great housemates, and an endless stream of podcasts.
When did you start campaigning?
I first got involved with activism when I joined Extinction Rebellion at university. Before that, I’d never even been to a protest, but like many people, I was deeply concerned about the climate crisis. Since then, it’s been a huge learning curve, with justice at the heart of it all. There’s so much work to be done, and all of it is interconnected—from climate activism to the fight for Palestinian rights. My role is simply to do what I can, when I can, to help create the better world I know is possible.
Is there a connection between your creative work and campaigning?
I try to bring them together whenever I can. At the very least, I make sure that the work I do aligns with my values and feels authentic. That said, I often find myself wanting more. What I really want is to advocate for systemic change—challenging the harms of capitalism through collective action. But all too often, the illustration work I’m commissioned for focuses on small, individual actions rather than the larger systemic shifts we need. Of course, that’s the reality of working within capitalism.
What are you working on now, and what’s next?
Right now, I’m working with the Royal Albert Memorial Museum to create illustrations for their family area, helping to engage children with the natural world through bright, simple artwork. Looking ahead, I’d love to take on more projects with a social justice focus and a radical edge. Art has the power to spark change, and I want my work to be a catalyst for conversation.
If you hadn’t become an illustrator, what would you have done instead?
I originally wanted to work in marine biology or ecology—something that would allow me to engage with my love of the natural world. But thinking about it now, if I weren’t an illustrator, I think I’d be a full-time campaigner.
I’m the regional coordinator for Kernow Right to Roam, and I’d love to dedicate more time to that—creating change through community-based activism.
How did you come to live in Cornwall?
I moved here to study illustration at Falmouth University, and, like so many others, I fell in love with the place. Cornwall has a rich history and a deep connection to the land. I hope that by engaging with the local community, traditions, and landscape—with care and respect—I can contribute something meaningful to the place I now call home.
What’s your favourite secret spot in Cornwall? (If you don’t mind sharing!)
There are definitely a few places I like to keep just between friends! But some of the lesser-kept secrets include the coastal paths along the Helford River and the woodlands of Kennall Vale. The longer you live here, the more hidden gems you discover.
What’s your favourite time of year in Cornwall, and why?
I love late summer, moving into autumn. The summer crowds have thinned out, and everything slows down, but the weather is still warm enough for evenings on the beach with friends. The sea is at its warmest, making for long, beautiful swims—definitely one of the best times of year.
What does Cornwall need more of?
- Community resilience
- Affordable housing
- Green spaces
- The right to roam
- Food sovereignty
- Job security for local people
Who are your heroes right now for making a positive impact in Cornwall?
Claire Wallerstein and Bryony Stokes. They’ve created a brilliant series of films about climate issues in Cornwall, the latest of which I’ve had the privilege of working on. Jaye Brighton – a local legend and an important elder to me. She fights fiercely and cares deeply for the community. Rob Burns is another key elder in my life. He has been leading Palestine solidarity demonstrations in Cornwall and dedicates his time to fighting civil rights cases for people with disabilities—all for free. And finally Connie Chilcott, the President of the Student Union at Penryn/Exeter Campus. She’s a fiercely passionate campaigner who always puts others first and has made a tangible difference in people’s lives.
What three things would you take to a deserted island?
Let’s assume we’re skipping survival essentials and going straight to the luxuries!
- A sketchbook and pencil—I need a creative outlet! (I’m counting that as one item.)
- My paddleboard—I’d love to explore the island from the water. There’s nothing better than bobbing about with no particular place to be.
- My field lens—I love looking at the tiny worlds of lichens and mosses, and I imagine an uninhabited island would have some incredible details to discover.
Community Conversations is a Forever Cornwall initiative, inspired by, and talking with, ordinary people who are doing extraordinary things—in all walks of life. We hope you enjoy following the stories and the links. Find out more about Holly Astle here.
