Behind the illustrations: Tanu Vasu on refining an icon

Here, Tanu shares the stories, memories, and inspiration behind the artwork created to mark the next chapter in Queen Mary 2’s iconic history.

What is your personal connection to Cunard?

I've admired Cunard for many years, so this was a special collaboration to be part of. Growing up in Australia, I remember seeing Cunard ships arrive at Circular Quay and the sense of anticipation they created.

What I've always loved about Cunard is that connection to history and heritage. There's such a rich legacy behind the brand, and Queen Mary 2 feels like a living continuation of that history.

She carries the spirit of the great ocean liners, while still feeling completely relevant today. Being invited to help tell the story of her next chapter is an absolute honor of a lifetime.  

Where did you find inspiration aboard Queen Mary 2?

A lot of my inspiration came from the history of the ship and the balance between heritage and renewal. What makes this refit so compelling is that it isn't about reinventing Queen Mary 2. It's about carefully evolving her while preserving the character and details that have made her so beloved.

I wanted the storytelling behind the illustrations to capture that feeling of stepping aboard and becoming part of that history - celebrating what already makes Queen Mary 2 extraordinary, while giving a sense of what's to come in this next chapter.   

What does the Transatlantic journey mean to you?

For me, the transatlantic journey is really about legacy. There's a romantic sensibility to it. Cunard has been part of so many stories over generations, and there's something incredibly enchanting about stepping aboard Queen Mary 2 and becoming part of that transatlantic history yourself.

The journey is so much more than traveling from one place to another. It's about the people you meet, the moments you experience, and the stories that unfold along the way. Every crossing feels like another chapter being added to a much bigger story - one that began generations ago and continues to evolve with every voyage.

That idea resonated with me when creating the illustrations. I wanted the work to reflect the incredible history and legacy of Cunard, while also capturing the feeling of being at the beginning of a new story. There's something beautiful about that connection between the intertwined stories that have already been told and the ones still to come.  

How did you capture the glamor of Cunard in your illustrations?

For me, the glamor comes from that incredible sense of heritage and timeless elegance. Cunard has such a distinctive visual and cultural history, and Queen Mary 2 carries so much of that forward.

I wanted the illustrations to feel connected to that history - to honor the heritage of Cunard and the character of Queen Mary 2, while celebrating her evolution and this exciting new chapter.  

What to expect from Queen Mary 2’s refurbishment

The 2027 refit of Queen Mary 2 is set to be an elevated refresh one of the world's most iconic ocean liners. Rather than reinventing her, the work will build on the character and elegance that have defined Queen Mary 2 since she first entered service in 2004.

Experience carefully considered enhancements from refreshed guest spaces, suites, and wellness facilities to a new and improved kennel experience for guests sailing with pets on Transatlantic Crossings.   

Sail on board the refined Queen Mary 2

Discover our upcoming Queen Mary 2 voyages and be among the first to experience the ship following her 2027 refit.

From iconic Transatlantic Crossings between Southampton and New York to voyages exploring the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and beyond, each journey offers a different way to experience the world on board our flagship.