Taking inspiration from the history and identity of the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic in Cornwall, this series of books seeks dialogue with the culture and folklore of magical practice. A range of artists were asked to create new work and collaborate on four publications that take their shape through this fascinating alternative history. ‘Satan is Real’ comprises two short stories by Wendy Erskine, who lives in Belfast, and illustrations by London-based artist and illustrator Stephanie von Reiswitz. A missing boyfriend in Amsterdam leads to new, uncontrollable powers being unleashed. A young member of a country gospel act has a penchant for black metal. What could go wrong? 

Wendy Erskine & Steph von Reiswitz—Satan is Real: Two Short Stories

ROUGH TRADE EDITIONS x MUSEUM OF WITCHCRAFT AND MAGIC

When Christine’s boyfriend goes missing in Amsterdam, she tries to find out what happened to him, eventually resorting to the Endor Centre in Belfast city centre. Before long, however, Christine finds that she has unleashed a new, powerful, uncontrollable lover.

Jamie is a member of a country gospel act, the Devine Family, led by his pastor father. But he harbours a secret passion for a black metal group, Bryght Gehenna, and becomes ready to embrace destruction and darkness.

40 p, ills colour & bw, 15 x 21 cm, pb, English