Over the past few years, I’ve been pouring my heart and soul into a growing series of paintings that breathe life into the world of World War Fae. Every brushstroke has been a step deeper into this evolving mythos—a world where art and story are inseparable. What Lies Beneath was one of the very first paintings in this journey and its form, like the ever shifting waves of Kuliltu’s world, has shifted and evolved over time, the heart of the story—Kuliltu’s story—has always remained the same.
Kuliltu, inspired by the Selkie born of Celtic myth and sea-magic, is about to step into the unknown. Her tale is one of adventure, sacrifice, and the spark of something far greater. As the surface world begins to unravel, she becomes the link between the deep and the dying. This is where World War Fae truly begins.
I have been drawn into the rich, mysterious threads of Celtic mythology, and this story, and others still yet to come, have been inspired by the folklore of Wales, Scotland, Ireland and much of the Northern Hemisphere. Each painting, each character, is pushing into this lore, pulling me in deeper with every sketch, every stroke, like the fae themselves don’t want me to let go of this silver thread.
Now, for the first time, I’m bringing the first story to life in a beautiful 56 page art book.
The Book
What Lies Beneath will be a beautifully formatted 56 page, square book, opening into a cinematic 60x30cm full-spread view of the artwork and story. Printed on high quality gloss paper, it will showcase fully illustrated pages, remastered artwork from the World War Fae collection of the last three years, exclusive teaser stories, in-depth character insights, and behind-the-scenes commentary on my creative process using traditional mediums in a digital age.
✨ Both physical and digital editions will be available.
✨ The book has fully-funded on Kickstarter.
✨ Bonus—You’ll also be able to follow the development of the artwork in real time
on my YouTube channel.
This is more than just a book… it’s the genesis of a new world.
Dive in.
Be part of the myth.
Let’s bring What Lies Beneath to life—together.ing journey.
Click on the image above to be taken to the pre-order site on seancounley.com
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