Watkins lands folklore book from 'pioneering voice' Ben Edge

Watkins has landed Folklore Rising, the first trade book from artist, filmmaker and folklore activist Ben Edge. 

Publisher Fiona Robertson acquired all-language rights directly from the author for global publication on 8th October 2024. 

"It all began on one serendipitous day while I was in the midst of a severe depression, when I stumbled on a Druid ceremony on Tower Hill, London," said Edge. "I didn’t know it at the time, but my art and my life would never be the same again. In this book you will join me on my personal journey of self-discovery and artistic expression as I reveal my first-hand experiences from the front line of Britain’s thriving folk culture." 

Folklore Rising offers a "unique insight" into Edge’s creative process and explores the folk customs of the British ritual year. It will also feature 200 of Edge’s paintings and photographs. 

Robertson commented: "Ben is a rising star of both the art world and a pioneering voice within a revolutionary new wave of creatives engaging with and re-enchanting the British landscape. There is no other book out there exploring contemporary folk culture through painting, photography and prose, all combined with an inspiring personal tale of mental health recovery and artistic self-expression and creativity." 

Deputy managing director Vicky Hartley added: "We are very proud to add Folklore Rising to our list of titles publishing this year that celebrate the wonder in the turning of the seasons and explore the significance of reconnecting with nature, each other and the past through art and folklore."