Exploring Inktober: Drawing the Tarot Cards

Inktober is a creative challenge that invites artists to draw an ink-based artwork every day for the month of October. It can be daunting to decide on a theme, especially when it comes to drawing the 22 major arcana tarot cards. However, this challenge is not just about artistic expression but also a journey into the world of divination and symbolism.

The Enigma of Tarot

Tarot cards are a fascinating blend of divination and folklore. Unlike what many may believe, tarot is not a modern invention. The origins of tarot cards are shrouded in mystery, with some historians tracing their roots back to ancient Egypt and the god of wisdom, Thoth. However, the oldest confirmed mention of tarot cards dates back to the 14th century, in Italy, around 1390.

Originally, tarot decks used for divination consisted of only 21 cards. Over time, this number increased to 28 and then to 52. My great-grandmother's deck, which my grandmother used, included 52 cards. Despite this evolution, tarot has maintained its status as a powerful tool for exploration and guidance. The Cartomancers, or tarot readers, use these cards to provide insights into the future or clarify life's challenges.

Choosing Your Path

For AUTHORS OF THIS MONTH, choosing which tarot cards to draw can be a daunting task. Here are a few suggestions to make the process easier:

The Fool (0): This card often symbolizes new beginnings and embracing the unknown. It could represent a hint of adventure or a call to start something fresh. The Magician (I): This card symbolizes creativity, manifestation, and the ability to make things happen. It can be a perfect choice for an empowering image. The Empress (II): This card represents nurturance, love, and the natural world. It could be an ideal choice for an image of abundance or growth. The Hierophant (III): This card represents tradition and conformity. It can be a good choice for a scene involving old rituals or traditions.

The Month Ahead

In addition to the 22 major arcana, you've decided on two other days for drawing box art and back of card art. Here's a brief explanation:

Box Art

Box art is essential for drawing attention and giving your tarot deck a unique identity. Consider the overall look and feel of your deck. What colors, themes, and aesthetics will you use? Will it be a mystical, classical, or modern take on tarot?

Back of Card Art

The back of the cards are just as important as the front. They can be a cohesive design or a place to feature the smaller omen cards within the deck. Think about how the back art can complement the front and enhance the overall experience of the user.

The Skeptical Perspective

One might argue that 'tarot is just a laughable superstition' and 'believed by gullible thinkers.' However, this perspective does not fully capture the depth and history of tarot. From a scientific standpoint, it is indeed the subconscious that makes quick decisions. But, part of the allure of tarot comes from its symbolic and interpretive nature, which adds layers of meaning and personal relevance.

For Astrology Tarot Cards and Psychotherapy enthusiasts, the tarot provides a platform for exploring deep psychological themes. The cards can serve as a symbol for individual growth and healing. Many tarot readers claim that the subconscious mind can help choose and interpret the cards, leading to a clearer understanding of one's life and self.

Conclusion

Whether you are participating in Inktober or simply exploring the world of tarot, remember that the cards are a tool for reflection, not prediction. They offer a unique lens through which you can view your life and the world around you. So, dive into Inktober with an open mind and a creative spirit, and let the tarot guide your artistic journey.