Women and Wolves: Legends from Around the World

Hi! I'm Naïma, a french artist, oil painter, the wolf is my favorite wild animal and very present in my art.

Have wolves always captivated you? Since childhood, this wild creature has intrigued me, and I've always felt a profound and mystical connection to it.

In this article I am sharing with you with the origins of that connection based on historical stories and legends that I discovered during my researches.

Warrior Oil Painting

"She Wolf"

I have always yearned to learn more about them, understanding how wolves live and communicate within their pack. I was also deeply moved and saddened by the fact that they were persecuted and killed. In history and children's stories, wolves are often portrayed as bad and dangerous animals. Why is that? Has it always been this way?

I was constantly asking myself why women have such a strong connection to this animal, and thus, here is an article exploring various stories and legends about wolves and women from around the world.

I belong to the Wild oil painting

Throughout history, the bond between women and wolves has been a powerful and recurring theme in myths, folklore, and legends.

These stories often highlight themes of transformation, loyalty, and untamed strength. In various cultures, women and wolves are seen as symbols of both nurturing and ferocity, embodying the duality of life and nature.

1. The Luperca She-Wolf of Rome

One of the most famous wolf legends comes from ancient Rome. The story tells of Luperca, the she-wolf who nurtured and protected the twin brothers Romulus and Remus. Abandoned as infants, the twins were suckled by Luperca in a cave, ensuring their survival. Romulus would later become the founder of Rome. While this tale is centered on the wolf, the nurturing yet wild nature of Luperca is often associated with the archetype of the protective mother figure.

2. La Loba – The Wolf Woman (Mexico & Southwest US)

In Mexican and Southwestern U.S. folklore, La Loba, or "The Wolf Woman," is a mysterious, ancient woman who collects the bones of wolves and sings them back to life. She is often seen as a symbol of feminine intuition, rebirth, and spiritual restoration. This legend aligns with the idea that women, like wolves, hold an intrinsic wisdom and an ability to resurrect lost power and wildness within themselves.

"La Loba" Wolf Woman and Moon

3. The White Wolf Woman of Native American Lore

Many Native American tribes have legends of a white wolf woman who walks between the worlds of humans and spirits. In some stories, she is a shapeshifter, able to become a wolf at will. Others depict her as a guardian of the wild, a protector of wolves and nature. The white wolf woman is often portrayed as an independent, strong figure who embodies the wisdom and freedom of the natural world.

4. Skadi, the Norse Huntress

In Norse mythology, Skadi is a goddess associated with the mountains, winter, and hunting. She is often depicted with wolves, as she shares their wild, untamed nature. After avenging her father’s death, Skadi chooses to live in the cold wilderness rather than among the gods, representing female independence and strength.

"Wild REBELLION" oils on canvas represents a beautiful goddess like woman with two wolves by her side.

5. The Beast of Gévaudan (France)

A darker tale, the Beast of Gévaudan was a terrifying wolf-like creature that plagued France in the 18th century. Some legends claim that it was controlled by a woman—a witch or sorceress who had the power to command wolves. Others say the beast itself was a woman cursed to transform into a wolf. While this legend leans into fear, it also reinforces the deep association between femininity and the mysterious, powerful nature of the wolf.

6. Werewolf Women of European Folklore

Unlike the more common male werewolf tales, there are also legends of female werewolves. In some European folklore, women accused of witchcraft were believed to have the ability to turn into wolves. Some stories tell of women who willingly became wolves to protect their families or avenge injustices. These legends highlight the idea that the wild feminine spirit is both protective and fierce.

The Enduring Connection

The relationship between women and wolves continues to inspire modern literature, film, and art. From *Little Red Riding Hood* (which has evolved into feminist retellings) to contemporary books like *Women Who Run With the Wolves* by Clarissa Pinkola Estés, the link between the feminine spirit and the wolf remains compelling.

These legends from around the world suggest that women and wolves share an intrinsic connection...both are creatures of instinct, wisdom, and raw power.

Whether as nurturing figures, fierce warriors, or mystical beings, the women-wolf legends remind us of the untamed and resilient nature of both.

Bringing the Feminine-Wolf Bond to Life Through My Art

As a painter, I channel the deep spiritual connection between women and wolves into my oil paintings, using rich textures and bold brushstrokes to capture the essence of this untamed bond.

My work explores the duality of feminine energy—both nurturing and fierce, intuitive yet wild.

Through my art, I represent women and wolves as intertwined spirits.

These paintings have all come to me by intuition, while letting my heart and soul speak on canvas. You can visualize each painting in the Originals section of my website.

Wild Embers oil painting

Do you feel a connection with the wolves too? If yes, please share in comments your story, I would love to know !!

Naïma

folllow me instagram.com/naimanamaste