This is a handmade linocut inspired by the Selkies, half-human half-seal creatures of Irish, Scottish and Icelandic folklore.

PRINT SIZE: Print size 12" x 17.5".

PAPER SIZE: ranges from 16.75" x 20.5" to 16” x 22" (if this is important to you please indicate which one you would prefer)

MATERIALS: It is printed with Caligo Safewash (non-toxic) Relief Ink on either traditional Japanese Awagami Select Hosho Paper, or Strathmore Paper both of which are archival quality. Hosho paper is a cultural heritage paper that has been handcrafted from the branches of the kozo, gampi and mitsumata trees for hundreds of years. It is acid-free and archival quality and has a rustic natural handmade feel with deckled edge. Strathmore Paper Mills are located in Massachusetts where my studio is, so for local and USA customers, this paper may be more eco-friendly than Hosho. Strathmore is a smooth, bright white, modern looking paper made of 100% cotton acid-free fiber. Paired with the rustic handcrafted folktale motifs and nature-inspired colors, Strathmore paper gives these prints a "modern-rustic" look and style.

COLOR OPTIONS: It is printed with four different color options: Black, Seafoam Green, Gray-Blue & Irish (Emerald) Green. The colors are hand-mixed so please expect slight variations. You can also request a custom color, it will take 3-5 days to print and dry before shipping.

STORY DETAILS:

Though this folktale has many variations, most include a seal-woman who falls in love with a human man who takes away her pelt. She lives with him on the land until her only son discovers her seal skin that his father had hidden away, and gives the skin back to his mother who slips it on and disappears back into the ocean.

The loss or theft of one’s skin (or pelt in this case) can be likened to the loss of soul or theft of soul. Though it is an ancient folktale, the theme is so relevant for many of us today who may experience this loss as a distraction that sways us from our authentic path, or a theft of opportunity, or a weakening sense of Self. The folktale speaks to those of us who have sacrificed something vital to us whether it is a love, a dream, or the potential to develop, and how important it is to reclaim it.

GIFT IDEAS: This would make a great gift for a nature and folklore lover, someone who loves the ocean and especially seals. It would also be a wonderful gift for a woman who feels like she is in the process of reclaiming a part of herself that was previously lost, it is an empowering gift, a reminder to truly value who you really are and to always return to that authentic place.

PACKAGING: This print will be carefully rolled in Kraft paper, packed in a recycled clear bag and shipped in a recycled cylindrical tube. FeathersandFolktales uses eco-friendly packaging supplies from EcoEnclose and YazooMills. A one-page insert including a description of the folktale is included with the print.

Free Shipping within the USA. Ships out within 1-3 business days.

Flat rate international shipping for $35.00

Questions? Please feel free to email diemdangers@gmail.com or contact me here. you will get a response within 24 hours.

Please note that the copyright of this work is retained by the artist.