Where I live & work, in the archipelago of Pellinki (in Southern Finland), several authors and artists have been inspired by the local environment, and one above all, Tove Jansson (1914-2001) , the creator of the popular fairy tale figures, The Moomins (Moomintrolls). I’ve been inspired by many others as well, but I think the Moomins had the biggest influence, with a philosophy that felt comfortable. Fairy tales never seem to stop fascinate adults, although one once in a while seem to think that it is only kids stuff. The world of escapism plays a big role for many artists. All artist are inspired by somebody else, we all need somebody to look up to, but might not always confess it… Not to forget the comics, I’m a huge fan of old Disney cartoons, and also comics created by Carl Barks, his stories still capture me with their wittiness & humor, so I end up laughing out loud while reading them.
The shadow of a Centaur in Pellinki, true or just a tale?
Snow White And The Three Gnomes (reluctantly cleaning the secret cave)
Most of the fairy tale books I know of are written by adults and even for adults – there must live a little imagination within an adult mind after all… Trolls, gnomes and all kinds of mythical creatures still live on thanks to creative adults, let’s not forget the Brothers Grimm who tirelessly collected folk tales to something that we all heard of by know all our lives, Little Red riding Hood, Rumpelstiltskin, and Cinderella to mention a few. What I’ve heard it’s common in Iceland that there are some mythical creatures living under rocks and a little everywhere. I’m convinced it is healthy to think that there are these “little people” around – as long as we can keep it under control.. 😉 It is said that it takes special skills to see them, and they don’t show them selves to just anybody. Maybe that’s why you haven’t spotted any? The real Moomins are difficult to see, as they are not much bigger than a matchbox… I could swear I catch some glimpses of them on a daily basis – or maybe it was an albino mouse – or maybe not..? Besides the Moomins another significant fairy tale series for me was the “Bland Tomtar och troll” series (Among gnomes and trolls) with the fantasticly enchanting illustrations by John Bauer…
Nordiska Väsen a book with a wonderful feel to the cover and beautful illustrations to the descriptions
Recently, to continue my journey through the fairy tales and myths, Johan Egerkrans released (in Swedish) the book “Nordiska Väsen” (Nordic Mythical creatures), inspired and dedicated to John Bauer, with clearly John Bauer inspired & peculiar illustrations. I’m in mythical fairy tale heaven…
Looking For Santa 