
Lady’s Mantle was treasured throughout medieval Europe for the delicate drops of dew that gathered in the center of its leaves. Alchemists believed these shimmering drops held magical properties, and some collected them in hopes of creating the philosopher’s stone or crafting powerful elixirs. The plant’s soft, rounded leaves were seen as a protective cloak, and so it became linked to the Virgin Mary, symbolising comfort, shelter, and gentle strength. Herbal healers used Lady’s Mantle to support



About the story: Enzo, a curious elephant, gets lost in a misty forest and encounters a tiny firefly named Lili, the guardian of an abandoned garden. The garden is on the brink of ruin, but deep underground lies a seed capable of restoring its life. With Enzo’s strength and Lili’s light, they awaken the seed and spark a magical transformation. The garden blooms again, becoming a sanctuary for forest creatures. It is a heartwarming tale of friendship, perseverance, and the power of small acts.






Belladonna / Deadly Nightshade In the hush of Nightshade’s shadow, she walks slowly. The forest watches — glowing eyes between the branches, a breath of danger and wonder intertwined. The berries shine like drops of midnight, beautiful, tempting, and filled with secrets only the wildest hearts dare to seek.


Folktale week 2026 Project: The iris teaches that storms may wash over us, but they always leave behind clarity, color, and a renewed sense of direction. In every petal lies a quiet promise: after the rain, something beautiful unfolds.




About the story: Enzo, a curious elephant, gets lost in a misty forest and encounters a tiny firefly named Lili, the guardian of an abandoned garden. The garden is on the brink of ruin, but deep underground lies a seed capable of restoring its life. With Enzo’s strength and Lili’s light, they awaken the seed and spark a magical transformation. The garden blooms again, becoming a sanctuary for forest creatures. It is a heartwarming tale of friendship, perseverance, and the power of small acts.





Poster for the project Mysterious forest


Lion character


digital illustration

Publisher National Geographic

Digital Illustration

illustration for Ljubljana Magazine








Draw this in your style challenge


Publisher National Geographic

A TOUCH-AND-FEEL STORYBOOK Published by Tiger Tales



Illustration made for Ljubljana magazine



Mateja Lukežič Illustrator
