Wolf Collection
Fierce loyalty - the protective power of wolves’ teeth
From January to March every year there are 11 fire festivals held across Shetland bringing the community together to celebrate the end of winter in a way inspired by our Viking past. My local fire festival is South Mainland Up Helly Aa (or SMUHA as it is affectionately known).
2024’s head vikings are Leigh and Vicki, and I was commissioned by them to create a jewellery collection to be worn by and to celebrate their SMUHA Jarl Squad.
-Karlin
Wolves are central to Norse mythology, often described as fierce and loyal like the Norse god Odin’s faithful companions Geri and Freki. And many lineages of warriors claimed to be descendants of mythical wolves.
Vikings are a warrior race, and their society was based on strong family units. This is akin to wolves - fiercely territorial and intensely loyal to their packs. Wolf society closely mimics human family structures, and wolves have complex vocal and body language skills that allow them to operate collectively and maintain unity. They are brave, beautiful, intelligent and communal.
The Jarl Squad Warrior Women
As vikings used axe and shield, wolves use their jaws as tools to protect their packs, and to hunt for and feed their families. Wolf packs are often led by alpha females who are both ferocious and caring - they signal dominance by bearing their teeth, but are gentle enough to carry their young in their jaws. Their teeth are symbolic of collective strength and an instinctive desire to care for and nourish their tribe.
Like wolves, we are stronger together and we all have a place in our pack.
