The Swan Maiden - detail

The Swan Maiden - detail

Not all swans may be what they first seem – some may shed their feathery coats at night and reveal themselves to be beautiful female Fays. If these coats are stolen, then the maidens will become trapped in humanoid form. If the thief is a human male, he may then take the maiden as a (possibly unwilling) bride. Should this occur, it raises the possibility that when the man least expects it a whole flight of swans will come to liberate their sister and her swanskin. Despite their usual serene demeanour, swans should not be underestimated, for should they become displeased they can prove themselves to be considerably powerful and aggressive creatures. Therefore any brigand and boor meddling in the life of a Swan Maiden could very likely come to sorely regret his actions. Other Swan Maidens though may be trapped in avian form as a result of a curse bestowed upon them. In Celtic myth it was customary for someone to embark upon and complete a series of heroic tasks on behalf of the Swan Maidens (and occasionally Swan Men), in order that their human form may again be resumed. The Celtic Goddess / Saint Bridget was also worshipped in some localities as being a Swan-Goddess. – quoted from here

Collaboration with Sonia and Rose:

Model: Sonia
Art direction: Rose
Photography: Geoff
Post-processing: Geoff