Vincent Pompetti Explores the Enchanting Arthurian Legend in 'King Arthur & the Ladies of the Lake'
Nov 25, 2024
In King Arthur & The Ladies of the Lake, author and artist Vincent Pompetti reimagines the timeless Arthurian legend, weaving together Celtic mythology and 5th-century history. Through vivid storytelling and his signature colored ink artistry, Pompetti explores themes of balance, transformation, and the vital connection between men and women.
In this interview, Pompetti shares his inspirations, creative process, and the magic behind his unique vision of King Arthur’s journey. Dive in to discover how he brings new enchantment to a legendary tale.
Pre-order yours today via PULLBOX or at your local comic shop. Arrives in stores on Wednesday, December 18.
What inspired you to revisit the Arthurian legend in King Arthur & The Ladies of The Lake?
This myth has fascinated me for almost as long as I can remember. I must have seen John Boorman’s film Excalibur when I was very young. Since then, I’ve done a lot of research and wanted to present a version close to the historical context of the 5th century and the Celtic oral tradition, in contrast to the usual Christian versions.
Your artistic style is marked by the use of colored inks. How does this technique influence the atmosphere and storytelling of this tale?
Inks are the primary technique I use for comics. In this particular case, they help create atmospheres of mist and ancient stones, suited to a medieval ambiance.
Celtic mythology seems to play a central role in this work. Why this choice, and how did you incorporate it into Arthur’s story?
In Celtic tradition, the concept of the cycle is very present. Man must place himself within it, creating and maintaining balance, especially between man and woman. The invisible world is not inaccessible, and humans should draw inspiration from it to improve the world.
In this book, you explore relationships between men and women.
Exactly, to extend the previous question, in Celtic myths, the woman inspires the man to take action, and in turn, the man stimulates the woman.
How did you handle these themes within the framework of the Arthurian legend? Can you tell us about the creative process behind the female characters, especially the Ladies of the Lake?
I started from the premise, widely reflected in the earliest versions of the myth, that most of the women come from Avalon, where they’ve been initiated, somewhat like a monastery where humans are taught before facing the world. Each of these ladies has a mission to accomplish. In my version, the Roman Empire has collapsed, and there is nothing in what will become England. This gives the Lady of the Lake the opportunity to inspire King Arthur to create a better world—one that is more feminine and sensitive.
How did you balance historical and mythological elements in your story?
Through Arthur’s journey. Even though the focus is on the ladies, Arthur remains the central character structuring the narrative. He undergoes initiatory steps, and Viviane sends a lady to him at each important stage, in an attempt to change the rigidity of the material world and its dangers.
Your work often touches on themes of balance and harmony. How are these concepts reflected in Arthur’s story and his interactions with the Ladies of the Lake?
The idea is that throughout the adventures, there is always the same man and woman interacting, progressing, and correcting their relationship. So, the story is less dramatic than it seems: the harsh characters "pay" for their actions, while those capable of redemption draw closer to Avalon. Arthur dreams of Avalon at the beginning of the story, and this ideal guides him throughout his life. He wants to bring Avalon to Earth. The only character outside of it all, the arbiter, is Merlin. It seems like he knows the story and steps in to balance it at important moments.
What was the biggest challenge you encountered while creating King Arthur & The Ladies of The Lake?
Finding the right angle to make the story interesting. It’s an eternal myth, and anyone can create their own version, but there have been many. That’s why it took me years to do it—when I was sure I had a personal approach, and I hope one that is faithful to the Celtic spirit.
Which artists or artistic movements influenced you for this particular project?
The same ones that have influenced me for a long time: Edward Burne-Jones, Waterhouse, the Pre-Raphaelite movement, and for comics, Prince Valiant by Harold Foster. Even though his version is different and rooted in its time, his universe is very rich, and there are a few references to his work.
How does your passion for history and mythology influence your other works?
I think having a solid foundation makes it easier to construct a story. Even when I write fantasy or science fiction, I imagine the architecture, the language, and the style to create coherence.
What elements of the Arthurian legend fascinate you the most, and how did you translate them into your artistic work?
Transformation, the passage from one state to another, and the need to sacrifice something in service of future generations. The initiation. I particularly love the meeting between Morgane and Perceval, or Arthur setting out when his kingdom is crumbling, meeting the white stag, and then the king of the forest, the bear. He finds himself...
Do you think the Arthurian myth remains relevant to modern readers? If so, why?
Yes, because this myth is eternal and transcends trends; it says things without being moralistic. It speaks of the importance of letting go in order to move forward, and more broadly, of the significance of the sacred, which is everywhere and takes many forms.
What do you hope readers will take away from King Arthur & The Ladies of The Lake after reading it?
Magic, enchantment, mystery."
King Arthur & The Ladies of the Lake (SEP241518) hits your local comic shop this Wednesday, December 18th. Reserve your copy now using PREVIEWSworld Pullbox! Look for it and more from Vincent Pompetti below.
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