#folktaleart

Folktale Week — Day 1: NIGHT

Today I bring a Rusalka, rising from a dark, still lake under the full moon. Her hair blends with the water as if she were woven from the night itself, and the sky around her shimmers with golden constellations. ✨🌙

In Slavic and Russian folklore, rusalki are water spirits — sometimes enchanting, sometimes dangerous, always deeply tied to rivers, lakes, and the mysteries of the night. They are guardians of the waters, symbols of beauty, sorrow, and untamed nature.

✨ Folktale Week — Day 2: ECHO ✨

For today’s prompt, ECHO, I painted a forest maiden whose song travels through the trees — and returns to her in the form of her female ancestors.

Her silhouette multiplies in soft, rosy transparencies, becoming a visual echo that surrounds her. Four ancestral figures fade gently into the background, two on each side, their presence woven into the forest itself.

The curved trees ripple like sound waves, connecting her to nature and to those who came before her. 🌿✨

In Slavic tradition, ancestors (especially maternal ones) are deeply honored. Their spirits are believed to guide, protect, and whisper wisdom through dreams, rituals, and the natural world. The forest becomes a bridge between the living and the remembered — a place where voices don’t vanish, they return.

I’m so excited to join #FolktaleWeek2025 for the first time! 🌿💫

From November 17–23, I’ll be creating illustrations inspired by Slavic folklore, focusing on mythical women and spirits that connect with nature and the elements.

Each piece will blend Art Nouveau aesthetics — flowing lines, soft colors, golden accents — with the mysticism of ancient tales. ✨

I hope I can complete all seven prompts, but mostly, I’m just thrilled to join this magical celebration of stories and art. 🌙

Let the enchantment begin! 🌾

Hosts (Instagram)

@debrastyer

@louve.draws