Slavic Mythology — Zahro Ayu Ningtias

In this illustration, the Leshy is depicted as a living mountain with watchful eyes, surrounded by lush and harmonious nature. He blends in with the forest, animals, and surrounding environment. This title was chosen because the Leshy is known as a guardian of the forest, capable of shapeshifting, disguising itself as part of nature to protect its territory.

This illustration depicts a Rusalka drowning in water, silent and bound, reflecting her tragic story. In Slavic mythology, the Rusalka is often associated with a woman who dies of unrequited love. The title emphasizes the eternal loneliness she experiences, trapped in the depths with unresolved memories and wounds.

Sirin is depicted holding a human figure like a puppet, emphasizing her power to control souls through sound. In mythology, Sirin’s singing is so beautiful that it can make humans lose their consciousness and will. This title represents how humans are no longer subjects, but rather objects, completely under her influence.

This illustration depicts Zhar-Ptitsa descending to the human world with a captivating glow of fire. Her presence brings not only beauty but also temptations that can alter one’s life path. This title was chosen because in Slavic mythology, Zhar-Ptitsa often symbolizes hope and the beginning of a risky journey, tempting humans to pursue things that may not necessarily bring happiness.

This illustration depicts the Vodyanoy as a water creature that straddles the line between protection and destruction. In Slavic mythology, the Vodyanoy are known as guardians of the waters, capable of kindness to those who respect them, but also cruelty to those who encroach on their boundaries. The title emphasizes that even guardians have the potential to destroy.

This illustration depicts Baba Yaga as a sorceress floating in a mortar. She is not simply an evil figure, but an entity that tests and judges humans. In some stories, she preys on the weak, but in others, she helps those who deserve it. The title emphasizes her position as a force poised between destruction and help.