What is Tarot, Anyway?
“First, a bit of history—Tarot got its start as a card game in the 15th century. So while it may seem like reading cards is an ancient practice, the use of Tarot for divination really came into its own in the 18th century. Because the Tarot deals in archetypes (or universal symbols), the meanings of each card and the stories those meanings tell span culture, continent, and time.
You may have seen the Tarot presented as a means of telling the future—even changing it—but the cards are actually most useful for reflection and empowered decision-making. From this vantage, Tarot can only aid on your journey to fulfillment.” – source Astrology.com
I’ve had the assignment to design this deck for quite awhile – research, choosing materials, and multiple meetings with the amazing psychic on Boston’s north shore, Francine Clausen (who initiated the idea for use in her practice) all took time. Link to her site –
Ever one to accept a challenge, I was fully on board. Apparently, the typical tarot deck is much larger. Forty cards seemed right to me. Most challenging ones to do were the three Archangels: Gabriel, Michael, Raphael.
My finish line was the end of the month. Halloween appropriately. All that that remains for me to do are finishing touches on a few images and lettering. Then follows a design of the back side. Shouldn’t take long. And then drum roll…. off to the printer 🙂
This was an unusual assignment for you, but you accomplished it with creative design and intense research. Your client must be thrilled to have an original design deck!
it was unusual, which made it even more interesting (and challenging).
She’s very pleased with what i did 🙂 thank you Dale.
Thx Linda. I absolutely love the way u made my ideas come to life. Could not have had my beautiful deck without your amazing talents. Can’t wait to share them with clients. Now to find a great printer. Big giant hugs. Francine
I’m delighted you’re pleased with them , Francine.
They were a joy to make! 🙂
Thank you for the history lesson. I did not know. I thought Tarot would be ancient like astrology. The graphics are great.
I too had assumed tarot was more ancient. It’s been so fun to do those 40 little paintings.
the more I tweak the happier I am with them 🙂