Joanna Mathews
Sunset Sublime Tarot

Sunset Sublime Tarot is an illustration exploration of the themes of tarot symbolism with personal meaning and reflection in every card.Each illustration pulls from experience and inspiration in a place of calm and security. The shapes and colors are meant to evoke a sense of dreamlike introspection, allowing the reader to sense the subtle in the liminal space between day and night, the sunset of the sublime.
Inspiration
Pulling from a personal journey of struggle and triumph, I wanted to honor some of the ladies in my life that have helped me through many difficult times and helped me tune in to my thoughts and emotions. Instrumental in my educational success as well, these spiritual sisters have supported me in finishing my degree here at The Modern.

Pictured L to R: Kathryn, Joanna, Sarah and Apple (seated)
Aesthetically, I was inspired by rich gradients and geometric art as well as the bold forms of artists like Jordan Moss. I wanted to get back to my illustration roots with this project as I feel like it has been forever since I could sit down and just play with color and shape. I chose the theme of sunset as a way of incorporating serenity as a tarot reader begins the inward journey dipping below the horizon of the self.

My interest in tabletop gaming and design for card and board games led me to choose a card deck so that I can showcase not only my art but packaging and product design skills.
Research
Etsy.com is full of both tarot and oracle decks created by independent artists that vary in style and price. Speaking with owners of esoteric bookstores and shops in the area, many strive to support local artists and feature their work prominently.Prices range from $20 into the $100’s depending on the material, print, and accessory details included.


The Three of Wands
The Three of Wands is represented by Sarah, a close friend whose honesty and advice have been indispensable in my educational journey.Sarah is a librarian, and reading and learning have always been important to her. I chose to have her face forward in the illustration as she is seen holding aloft the three wands, used as bookmarks here. In facing forward and presenting these books with the wands, her guidance has allowed me to forge forward in my journey and know that achievement of my goals is within reach.The symbolism of the card is important to me realizing my ultimate goal through my education: a career that will allow me to embrace security and abundance for the rest of my life.

The Queen of Coins
The Queen of Coins is represented by Apple, my best friend for almost 20 years.Apple is always a constant pillar in my life, and we have helped one another through tough times with love, patience, and steadfast loyalty. She is my greatest advocate, and is the angel
on my shoulder when negative self talk seeks to undermine my progress.She is seated here, holding a coin and basking in the sun. The pentacle on the side of the chair symbolizes her wheelchair not as a disability, but as a reminder of all that she can achieve despite adversity. Seated at her shoulder is Kyo, her cat, a little companion full of compassion and love.

Strength
The Strength card is represented by Kathryn, Apple’s daughter.Kathryn is a shining example to me of the fact that it is possible to have all that I dream. She, herself, represents a success as she has grown into a beautiful and wonderful person, and I am honored to have had a hand in raising her as her honorary Auntie.She is depicted with two of her dogs, Boomer on the left, and Bruce on the right. She effortlessly controls the dogs, but not through force, only force of will. She shines her light into the world and nothing can stop her when she puts her mind to something.
This is the energy I wish to channel when I feel in need of a boost to help me through tough times.

The Hanged Woman
The Hanged Woman is my card, representing the perspective I have gained from the knowledge obtained throughout my education and my life experiences.This card speaks to me as a creative mind. It is about looking at things from outside the box and contemplating different views of a situation. Taking the plunge into my own creativity is necessary for me to continue my journey and find success. My journey to finish my degree has been full of setbacks, struggles, and challenges, but the rewards will be worth the sacrifice. I know that I can achieve my dreams if I stay the course and keep working through the trials.
Packaging

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