the-graphic-grimoire

[the-graphic-grimoire]

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Currently Designing my own modern Tarot.

[the-graphic-grimoire]

Revitalizing the Tarot: The Necessity of Modern Illustrations

In a world where ancient traditions intersect with contemporary sensibilities, Tarot cards stand as a timeless symbol of mysticism and introspection. However, as we navigate the complexities of the modern era, it becomes increasingly evident that the traditional illustrations adorning Tarot decks may not fully resonate with today's diverse and evolving audience. It's time to acknowledge the necessity of modern illustrations in Tarot decks, not as a departure from tradition, but as a way to keep up with the evolution of the human psyche and it’s symbolism. Cultural Relevance: Traditional Tarot decks often feature imagery steeped in European symbolism and mythology, reflecting the historical context in which they emerged. While this heritage is undeniably valuable, it's important to recognize that Tarot has transcended geographical boundaries and is now embraced by people from diverse cultural backgrounds. Modern illustrations have the power to incorporate symbols and narratives that resonate with a broader spectrum of individuals, encouraging acceptance and cultural appreciation within the divination community. Accessibility: For many newcomers to Tarot, the archaic imagery of traditional decks can feel intimidating or difficult to interpret. By employing modern illustrations, Tarot becomes more approachable to those who may be unfamiliar with its esoteric symbolism. Contemporary artwork can convey universal themes and emotions in a visually engaging manner, allowing users to connect with the cards on a personal level and access their intuitive insights more readily. Innovation: The beauty of Tarot lies in its capacity for interpretation and personal reflection. Modern illustrations provide Tarot artists with the opportunity to infuse their decks with unique perspectives, styles, and narratives. Whether it's reinventing classic archetypes or exploring entirely new themes, contemporary artists can breathe fresh life into the Tarot tradition while honoring its enduring wisdom. Furthermore, modern techniques such as digital art and mixed media offer limitless possibilities for innovation, pushing the boundaries of Tarot imagery beyond what was previously imaginable. Representation and Diversity: Inclusion has become paramount in any modern spiritual practice or artistic endeavor. Traditional Tarot decks often lack representation of diverse identities, reinforcing narrow standards of beauty and existence. Modern illustrations present an opportunity to celebrate the richness of human experience by featuring characters of various genders, ethnicities, body types, and abilities. By embracing diversity in Tarot imagery, we acknowledge the interconnection of all beings and honor the inherent value of every individual's journey. Adaptation to Contemporary Themes: The challenges and concerns of the modern world are vastly different from those of centuries past. Tarot, as a tool for introspection and guidance, must evolve to address the issues facing society today. Modern illustrations can reflect contemporary themes such as environmental sustainability, social justice, mental health, and technological advancement, empowering users to explore these topics within the framework of Tarot symbolism. By integrating current events and societal shifts into Tarot decks, we ensure their relevance and resonance for generations to come.

From my personal perspective, as an artist and pagan who has used the Tarot for over 40 years, it is time to pursue the dream of creating my own deck. The challenge is to interpret where changes are needed. One thing I had to consider right away is the suits of the Minor Arcana. For example the word “Cups” use to have a much more emotionally charged meaning, but now the word evokes thoughts of plastic, styrofoam or paper that is meant to be disposable. One of the first decisions I made was to replace “Cups” with “Chalice” because that word now has a more elevated connotation that better represents the required symbolism.

As my work proceeds I have to decide which cards need the most changes and create art to modernize it’s symbology.

I have opted to convert the card art to vector in it's final stages. One of the benefits of this is the ability to sell these designs on print on demand products. This not only generates income as the project proceeds but gives me the ability to gauge interest in certain decisions that have been made.

[the-graphic-grimoire]

[the-graphic-grimoire]

[the-graphic-grimoire]

Details from Arthur Rackham’s illustration “And now they never meet in grove or green,” (1908) from A Midsummer Night’s Dream by William Shakespeare

[the-graphic-grimoire]

[the-graphic-grimoire]

Calling all Witches:

Get super cool fonts to use for your book of shadows pages : 

http://www.dafont.com/theme.php?cat=705

they are all free to download so at least give them a look

[the-graphic-grimoire]

A spell that takes multiple days to cast should begin and end on a corresponding day, and at an planetary hour associated with the intent as well.

MAGICAL TIMING

CURSING - TUESDAY / SATURDAY - WANING / DARK MOON

PROTECTION - TUESDAY THURSDAY/

SATURDAY - WAXING / FULL MOON

CLEANSING - SATURDAY - WANING MOON / BLUE MOON

BANISHING - SATURDAY - WANING MOON / DARK MOON

BINDING - TUESDAY / SATURDAY - WANING MOON / FULL MOON

HEALING - THURSDAY / SUNDAY - FULL MOON / BLUE MOON

PSYCHIC POWER - MONDAY - FULL MOON / BLUE MOON

LOVE & FRIENDSHIP - FRIDAY - NEW MOON / WAXING MOON

SUCCESS - SUNDAY - WAXING MOON/ BLUE MOON

LUCK & FORTUNE - WEDNESDAY

WAXING MOON / BLUE MOON

WEALTH - WEDNESDAY / THURSDAY / SUNDAY - WAXING MOON

PEACE - MONDAY - WANING NEW MOON

COURAGE / STRENGTH - TUESDAY - WAXING / FULL MOON

INTELLIGENCE / WISDOM - MONDAY / WEDNESDAY - WAXING / FULL MOON

[the-graphic-grimoire]

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On most evenings there was unspeakable company, from James Branch Cabell's Figures of Earth: A Comedy of Appearances by Frank C. Pape (1925)

[the-graphic-grimoire]

This pretty much sums up my life. Try to portray myself as a revolutionary, while focused on making art of mundane things like fish. For the past 30 years, sex and romance has been so far removed from my life I wouldn't recognize it, if was right next to me.

Dean Cornwell (1892-1960)  American

[the-graphic-grimoire]

Yes, that Andrew Loomis.

Kirstin, Red Book magazine interior illustration, March 1939 by Andrew Loomis

[the-graphic-grimoire]

Basic Project Planning in Accordance to the Phases of the Moon

The following chart is to help calculate the most astrologically favorable times for planning, beginning, and completing design projects. This can be used in conjunction with other associations, such as the days of the week, moon sign, and sun sign among others, to heighten a project’s chance of success. Note: These are not intended to be the only times of success, only the times of astrologically heightened odds.   

Moon Phases:

Waning- Associated with planning projects, and getting rid of negativities. Sketches, Mock-ups, Wireframes etc. should be developed at this time along with the collection of Photography, Stock Images and other assets to be used in final product.

New Moon- Best day to complete planning stages and begin actual design work on a project.

Waxing- Time for actual Creative processes. Work on the final product should be done during this time, for example if creating a Website; you should actually be working in Adobe Dreamweaver or similar program at this time.

Full Moon- Projects completed on or near this day will have a higher chance of success. In design this is the optimum time to deliver completed project to client.

[the-graphic-grimoire]

Occult Associations of the Days of the Week as applied to Design.

Saturday: Associated with cleaning, the home, purification, structure, and awareness of one’s environment.

Color: Black

Direction: Center

Element: Totality

Foods: Shelled Animals (Insect, Shellfish, Snails, Turtle, Etc.) and Roots

Gemstone:  Onyx and Snowflake Obsidian

Herbs: Cloves and Eucalyptus

Incense: African Violet, Basil Leaves, and Dragon’s Blood.

Project Aspect: Format (Landscape, Portrait, Round, Square, etc.), Size (11 x 17 etc.), and Support (Paper, Canvas, etc.)

Design Fields: 3D, Architectural Drawings, Game Environment, Package Design.

Sunday: Associated with decor, masculinity, popularity, success, and awareness of one’s reputation.

Color: Golds, and also all warm colored hues in metallic and/or high gloss.

Direction: Down

Element: Spirit (End, Completion)

Foods: Dairy Products, Domesticated Red Meats, and Grains.

Gemstone: Diamond and Sunstone

Herbs: Irish moss and Mandrake Root

Incense: Cloves, Frankincense, and Musk

Project Aspect: Final steps, and post production concerns such as; protective coatings, framing, and packaging.

Design Fields: Brand Identity, Publishing, Special Effects, Video Editing

Monday: Associated with ancestry, femininity, fluids, sustaining, and awareness of one’s emotions.

Color: Silvers, and also all cold colored hues in metallic and/or high gloss. (Also black and white)

Direction: Up

Element: Void of Emptiness (Birth, Beginning)

Foods: Eggs and Nuts

Gemstone: Moonstone and Smoky Quartz

Herbs: Fennel and Neroli

Incense: Bay Leaves, Passionflower, and Rosemary.

Project Aspect: Early stages of development including, asset gathering, sketches, storyboards, etc. 

Design Fields: Character Design, Film and Video Production, New Product Launches, Photo Manipulation,

Tuesday: Associated with aggression, conflict, physical activity, sexuality, and awareness of one’s own vulnerabilities/mortality.

Color: Reds

Direction: South

Element: Fire

Foods: Game Animals and Breads

Gemstone: Bloodstone and Carnelian

Herbs: Basil leaves and High John the Conqueror Root

Incense: Fumitory, Galangal, and Ginseng Root.

Project Aspect: Functionality.

Design Fields: Animation, Motion Graphics, Video Games, Web Development

Wednesday: Associated with communication, intelligence, learning processes, networking, and awareness of one’s skills.

Color: Yellows including Earth Tones

Direction: East

Element: Air

Foods: Birds and Fruits

Gemstone: Labradorite and Rhyolite

Herbs: Sage and Sandalwood

Incense: Anise Seeds, Elecampane, and Gotu Kola.

Project Aspect: All things concerning communication including, knowledge of target audience, typography, written content.

Design Fields: Print Ads, Public Service Announcements, Type Design, Web Design

Thursday: Associated with health, personal hygiene, property, wealth, and awareness of one’s resources.

Color: Blues/Violets

Direction: North

Element: Earth

Foods: Bacon, Ham, Pork, Saps, and Sugars

Gemstone: Amethyst and Tiger’s Eye

Herbs: Five fingered grass and Goldenseal

Incense: Bayberry, Benzoin, and Patchouli

Project Aspect: All things related to client’s needs and expectations including copyrights, legal requirements, logo, stock photography, trademarked colors, etc.

Design Fields: Annual Reports, Business Cards, Logo Design, Title Design,

Friday: Associated with charisma, friendships, hospitality, social needs, and awareness of one’s own appearance.

Color: Greens

Direction: West

Element: Water

Foods: Fish and Vegetables

Gemstone: Malachite and Topaz

Herbs: Jasmine and Rose

Incense: Aloe, Dittany of Crete, and Rose

Project Aspect: All things related to the work’s appearance including color saturation, composition, imagery, resolution etc.

Design Fields: Fashion Photography, Multi-media Ad Campaigns, Social Media, Viral Marketing

[the-graphic-grimoire]

Notes on the use of correspondence charts

Whether you are doing either graphics, or work in the occult, there is one key aspect I encourage and that is personalizing your work. This can be relatively easy when doing design work; it actually falls into place as your “artistic voice”. But it seems to be a little more difficult when applied to occult philosophy. I use to hear people say, “I followed the instructions in the book to the letter, but I feel it does not work for me.” You have to take it and make it “yours” in order for the energies involved to have the desired effect.

This being said, do not hesitate to replace something from a correspondence chart if you feel it will work better for you. Achieving success in meditation, spell working, or any other occult science is more about changing your own thought patterns to attract the desired result than it is to ‘manifest’ that result from thin air. If you feel a certain stone represents an aspect better than ones you found on any list, use it. Whenever possible, use multiple items your work. Even replace the type of item if necessary, for example replace stones with herbs if you feel it is more symbolic or as required because of availability.

The only thing you should not do is replace or leave something out because of laziness. Never let yourself get into the habit of ‘making do’, because you don’t want to reach up to the top shelf etc. If you do this you will have a 0% success rate and you have more deep rooted problems than you probably realize. If this is a constant habit, you should consider making some time for meditation to explore the causes of this behavior, and then research the steps to take to solve it. Then and only then will you find the successes you are looking for. I know because I have fallen victim to it myself in the past.

Same applies to graphics, if something is off but you feel ‘it will do’, that bad habit will catch up with you.

Also my work and charts that I have made and post here will show some Celtic inspiration at times. Always feel free to personalize those areas as well with associations from your own personal path. If something does not work and you are not sure what will, do a little research. I recommend any of the books by the late Scott Cunningham as expert reference material, and is available from Llewellen Publications.