Celtic Myth and Magic Tarot

Our latest interview is with Christabel, who has created a beautiful nature based deck that is also environmentally friendly and sustainable.

Unfortunately this kickstarter did not reach the required funding levels.

Where in the world do you call home?

Beautiful Sussex in the UK What was your first experience with tarot and when did you fall in love with it?

When I was a young teenager I fell in love with runes, tarot and myths about forces that shape our lives that we never see. The first reading I did for myself was a one card reading in which I drew the four of cups. I was going through really difficult times and that simple reading really taught me that life is all about what you make of things. I think that's helped me to always be grateful for what is already around me, even if life doesn't always feel like it's giving you the easiest journey :) What made you want to create this deck? What was your inspiration?

I wanted to create an earthy deck that connected people to the sense of magic and power you find in nature. The inspiration is everything Celtic- artwork, mythology, forces of nature, and British wildlife. I wanted to create a deck in which you didn't see any humans at all, animals take their place as the focus much of the time, as well as everything you'd find in nature.  Aside from your own deck, do you have a favourite deck? If so, which one?

So many are so wonderful in different ways! I particularly like Vikings Tarot deck, as it has powerful images of the Nordic myths and gods. I'd love to make a deck based on those some day.  Do you have a favourite card (either from your deck or just the card in general). If so, why is it your favourite?

I've loved drawing the Page/Knight/Queen/King for each suit, these are always based on powerful animals in accordance with the element associated for each, and its been lovely to draw them like a family for example a baby owl Page of Swords all the way up to fully grown wise Queen and King owls.  What have been your challenges in creating this deck?

Probably learning to use the various computer based programs to transform the artwork into actual cards! Drawing the deck itself has been an absolute joy, learning the technology side of things has been the challenge for me, but still a fun and creative one.  What is one thing you really want people to know about this deck?

That these cards have real power behind them. Each and every card took so much thought and care, hours of drawing and creative energy is poured into each card for it to go from a sketch into a finished piece. Each card to me is very special, so I suppose I want people to know they can have faith in the great energy this deck has to help and to guide them whenever they need support.  You make a point that you will use recycled shipping materials and try to source from small businesses with positive mission statements. How important is the environment and sustainability to you?

Hugely important! The whole ethos behind my deck is in connecting back to a culture that lived off the land, that regarded themselves as part of and in tandem with nature. I think it would be hugely hypocritical not to use sustainable materials for such a deck, and am delighted to say I have now found the perfect ethical FSC approved small business who use recycled materials, sustainable production methods, and even eco-friendly soy bean ink to print stunning and beautiful quality cards.  How will you celebrate when your deck is finally published?

I will send a grateful prayer to the Universe and then go and cuddle my cats :)  What is on offer for people who pledge?

Options ranging from three card sets and t-shirts, to the full tarot deck, all the way up to the original signed artwork and double sets of decks.