Cinderella

Original title: Pepelka

Alenka Sottler’s Pepelka is a timeless retelling of the classic Cinderella story, as recorded by the Brothers Grimm two centuries ago, now reimagined through her distinctive illustrative style. Sottler’s illustrations move beyond the familiar stereotype of Cinderella as a simple tale of virtue rewarded over vice. Instead, she places the story in a more complex, almost ritualistic context, transforming it into a narrative of pilgrimage and maturation.

Her artistic language experiments with animating rigid objects such as dolls, theater curtains, and columns, and incorporates an oriental graphic atmosphere, including motifs like chessboards. These choices immerse readers in a distant past, situating Cinderella within Gothic motifs reminiscent of Slovenian Gothic paintings. In Sottler’s interpretation, the characters are not simply divided into good and evil; each follows their own path along a journey that culminates in the ultimate triumph of goodness.

The illustrations emulate the sgraffito technique used in castle wall decoration, employing royal colors—blue, red, and gold. Drapery, birds, and other elements are given exceptional artistic attention, contributing to the ceremonial and symbolic quality of the story. The narrative concludes with the proclamation of the royal couple beneath three symbols: a key, representing initiation and access to secrets; a crown, symbolizing dignity and honor; and the sun, signifying life and eternity.

Sottler’s Pepelka is both a visual and narrative reimagining of a classic fairy tale, blending tradition, symbolism, and experimental artistry to create a version of Cinderella that feels both ancient and vividly contemporary.