The Lincoln Imp first caught my eye in the most unexpected way—while browsing eBay. Someone was selling a letter opener with the Imp carved into the handle. I was intrigued, did a little digging, and fell down a folklore rabbit hole. He’s been living rent free in my skull since.

Eventually, he found his way out and onto a lino block. Stone was a bit much for me.

“One day, according to a very old legend, the Devil sent his imps out to play, and the wind blew two of them all the way to Lincoln.

At first they were so awestruck by the splendour of the Cathedral that they were afraid to enter. But soon, one imp plucked up courage, flew into the Cathedral where he tried to trip up the Lord Bishop, and to knock down the Dean, and teased the Vergers and Choir.

When he started to break windows the Angels told him to stop his wicked doings; he cheekily replied “Stop me if you can!” Whereupon he was at once turned into stone, and made to sit for evermore in a cleft in the Angel Choir.” – Lincoln Cathedral website

Lincoln Imp – Excited to announce he will be on display at the Folklore, Fairytale, Myths & Legends exhibition at @queenstgallery 7th – 28th June 2025, and the Crickhowell Open Art Exhibition and Competition at @orielcric 23rd May – 12th July 2025