From l
eft to right, to versions of my Hierophant card. The first is from the 1990s. The third is a work in progress (hence the “blobs” where details are missing).
Yes. Six arms. Two making religious gestures (one hand sign and one with the staff). Two with hands extended, welcoming in the dreamer. Two blessing students who will be kneeling before him. The background will likely be filled with religious books and records. Note the figure on the cross, leading into his “heart.” For some, he may seem the path to salvation, so I plan to make that area look very “heavenly gates.” Being a member of the Deck of the Dreamers, a silly hat is almost a requirement!
From left to right, three versions of my Emperor card. The first is from the 1990s. The second was done in the early 2000s. The third is the final version without text.
The dream shifts rapidly, zooming out. The dreamer floats before the Emperor, whose piercing gaze reveals supreme confidence. He is a master of the world, able to command without question. He is the ethical father, the trusted ruler, he need only to speak and his will is done. The dreamer strives to become him, to gain control of the dream, yet cannot help but sense risk in the Emperor’s relentless drive.
From left to right, three versions of my High Priestess card. The first is from the 1990s. The second was done in the early 2000s. The third is final without text.
The dreamer encounters a vast field of wheat ahead, nurtured by the Empress. The twelve stars in her crown gleam like diamonds under the sun. She wears eighteen leaves in her hair, a symbol of good fortune and long life. To the dreamer, it seems she must be Mother Nature herself. She stands as a reminder that patience and nurturing are necessary for growth. As the dreamer ponders her wisdom, the Empress begins to bring life to another dream.
From left to right, three versions of my High Priestess card. The first is from the 1990s. The second was done in the early 2000s. The final one is my finished version without the text.
Guarding the secrets within the sea of dreams is the High Priestess. She is one with the water and a sister to the moon. She holds the answers to the dreamer’s every question, but obtaining them won’t be easy; she’s hidden them away in yet another dream she’s created with an artificial moon.
From left to right, three versions of my Magician card. The first is from the 1990s. The second was done in the early 2000s. The final one is my finished version without the text.
As the dreamer falls deeper into sleep, he encounters the magician, a wild, yet charismatic man who uses every tarot suit as a tool. Is he creating real magic or is he a skilled showman? His act is convincing, yet his garb is eccentric and his gestures practiced. The brilliant halo floating above his brow certainly declares his powers infinite.
From left to right, three versions of my Fool card. The first is from the 1990s. The second was done in the early 2000s. The final one is my finished version without the text.
The Fool begins his blind journey into his dreams by walking straight over a cliff, unaware of any peril. His loyal companion nips at his heels, warning him, but also willing to follow him right over the edge. He carries a bag of blossoms and a feather in his cap, for he loves beauty. His walking stick (a symbol of his creative passion) is heavily locked and weighted by reminders from his waking life, but he hefts it along anyway; here he no longer cares.
