Tarot Cards (2021)
I did some research on symbolism in tarot cards, and decided to redesign some in my spare time. The style that I used fully focuses on lineart and explores allegory in illustration.
'Death'. Change (upright) or stagnancy (reversed).
Death does not differentiate between class, race or gender. Represented by the plague doctor and raven, Death guides a lion (king) and a lamb (child/pauper) to the afterlife.
'Judgement'. Awakening (upright) or doubt (reversed).
The original image depicts women, men and children rising from the grave in response to the call of the archangel Gabriel.
'The Devil'. Oppression (upright) or freedom (reversed).
Held captive by the Devil, a man and woman have become less human as they indulge themselves with material possessions and power.
'The Star'. Hope (upright) or despair (reversed).
I drew inspiration from the Greek goddess Aphrodite. The card's matching sign is Aquarius. The overall image is symbolic to the cycle of fertility and one's inner resources/practical abilities.
'The World'. Fulfillment (upright) or emptiness (reversed).
'The Tower'. Disaster (upright) or avoidance (reversed).
In an act of desperation, the ants jump off the dandelion moments before it is pulled out from the ground. This card symbolises destruction, fear of change and survival.
'Temperance'. Balance (upright) or imbalance (reversed).
The figure depicted has the physical characteristics of both sexes with wings of a gynandromorphic butterfly. The card represents the balance/stability that comes from patience and moderation.
'The Moon'. Uncertainty (upright) or deception (reversed).
The doubles represent good and evil but their similarities can make it difficult to distinguish between them.
'The Sun'. Vitality (upright) or negativity (reversed).
A white foal resting atop a sunflower, basking in the warmth of the sun. This card represents warmth, purity and strength.