This watercolour fantasy illustration was inspired by mysterious myths of the North and murky ponds and forest lakes with stunning water lilies that bloom in July-mid August in Finland, Sweden and Norway.  These ponds and lakes often give off a mysterious vibe and it’s no wonder that ancient people could gaze at reflections and see the nokken (or näkki), a mischievous shapeshifting creature that resides in the shadows and water reflections in the dark, mirror-looking water.