"Lithuanian folklore and mythology" - Shot from animated Lithuanian tale - "Ragana ir Jonukas" (The Witch and Johnny)
"Lithuanian folklore and mythology" - "Velniukai" - Devils, Inspiration after a trip with children to the Devil Museum in Kaunas. In Lithuanian folklore, devils were not only evil. They lived in communities like humans, raised children, and took care of household chores. Sometimes, they even asked people for help with household tasks and life in general.
"Lithuanian folklore and mythology - "Rūgutis"
Before drawing, I always create a story or read more literature about Lithuanian-Baltic gods. Here is one of the legends about the god Rūgutis. Rūgutis - is speculated to be an ancient Lithuanian god of fermentation, especially of beer. Rūgutis is a descendant of giants. He lived among the giant thinkers, who left us green hills, mounds, and our beautiful Lithuanian nature. The giant thinkers are the prototypes of the current wooden figurines carved by craftsmen. Among the giant thinkers lived the giants of greenery, they were of a different kind, they brought bread, beer, and festivals into the lives of the giant thinkers. It is said that if it weren't for the giants of greenery, the giant thinkers would turn into stone mountains out of boredom. That's why Lithuania doesn't have grey mountains, but such beautiful green hills and incredible natural
"Lithuanian folklore and mythology" - "Gabija" - Gabija is a goddess in Lithuanian mythology, primarily associated with fire and hearth. She is one of the most significant deities in the Lithuanian pantheon, representing the domestic fire that was crucial for warmth, cooking, and protection in ancient Lithuanian households. Here are some key points about Gabija:
Symbolism of Fire: Gabija is often depicted as a fiery goddess, symbolizing the vital element of fire in ancient Lithuanian culture. Fire was not only essential for practical purposes like cooking and heating but also held symbolic significance, representing purification, protection, and the divine presence.
Guardian of the Hearth: Gabija was believed to reside in the hearth of every home, where families would perform rituals to honor and appease her. It was customary to keep the hearth burning continuously, and neglecting to tend to the fire was seen as disrespectful to Gabija and could bring misfortune upon the household.
"Lithuanian folklore and mythology" - "Laima ir Ragana" - Laima and the Witch Laima and the Witch - twin sisters. They make life happen. They determine life and death. Laima arrives in the form of a cuckoo and a prophetess and foretells the fate of man. A witch can bring sickness and bad luck.
