When you think of folklore, you might imagine old fairy tales, strange creatures in the woods, or ancient songs passed down through generations. But beneath the surface of these stories lies a powerful language of symbols—visual and verbal clues that carry deep meaning across time and cultures.
In this post, let’s explore the magical world of folklore symbology: what it is, why it matters, and how it shows up in art, legends, and even everyday life.
What Is Folklore Symbology?
Symbology is the study of symbols—shapes, colors, animals, or objects that stand for something else. In folklore, symbols are everywhere. They carry messages about life, death, love, fear, and nature. They often say what can’t be said directly.
For example:
A crow might symbolize death or hidden knowledge.
A circle could represent protection or eternity.
A tree might stand for life, connection, or the passage between worlds.
These symbols are not random—they’ve been passed down for centuries and can be found in many cultures around the world.
Why Symbols Matter in Folk Stories
Folklore often comes from times when people couldn’t read or write. Instead, they shared wisdom through stories, rituals, and images. Symbols made those stories easier to remember—and more powerful.
A hero entering a dark forest isn’t just going on a walk. The forest is a symbol of the unknown, of inner fear, or a test. A key might mean unlocking a mystery. A mirror could reflect truth—or lies.
Symbols help make simple stories feel rich and meaningful.
Symbols in Slavic & Pagan Art
Many of the symbols I use in my own artwork come from Slavic and European folk traditions. These include:
Eyes — often represent vision, spiritual insight, or watching over others.
Birds — messengers between worlds, especially owls and crows.
Hands — for protection, magic, or healing.
Moons and stars — symbols of intuition, mystery, and the feminine.
Plants like ferns or nettles — sacred symbols in Slavic pagan culture, used for protection or transformation.
These images aren’t just decoration—they’re a quiet language that connects us to the past.
How to Read Symbols in Art
Next time you look at a piece of folklore-inspired art, try this:
Notice what stands out — a repeated object, color, or animal.
Ask what it reminds you of — does it feel magical, dangerous, comforting?
Think about what it might mean — both to you and in a traditional sense.
Art and folklore often leave space for your own imagination. That’s part of their magic.
Folklore symbology is a way to connect with the invisible world behind the visible one. Whether you see it in a painting, a tattoo, or a bedtime story, it invites you to pause, look deeper, and feel something ancient and alive.
If you're curious about these symbols, I invite you to explore my art print collection, where many of these motifs come to life—each one with its own hidden message.
