My contribution to De Standaard’s 2026 summer photo project. Nine photographers received a word; this year it was “summer” - I chose “summer solstice.” After reporting on folklore years earlier, I grew intrigued by solstice traditions and modern witchcraft. I read about reclaiming the term “witch” and how many women accused and killed centuries ago were sometimes simply independent, outspoken - traits that might have labeled me a witch then.

I contacted Dutch modern-witch groups. Weeks brought silence and refusals; I understood their caution. Then the Wise Woman of Heerlen’s Triple Goddess clan replied and invited me to join their Litha (summer solstice) celebration.

Heerlen, Netherlands, 2026.