The chromatic Fates Tarot

Expanded Booklet
Welcome to the Chromatic Fates Tarot’s
Expanded Booklet! Here you’ll find collected
sketch snippets, progress views of the
artwork as it was being developed, and direct
quotations from the artists about the meanings
behind their imagery and thought processes.

I’d like to thank Yunice, Stevie, Kami, Barbara,

and Aria for their incredible help with the
campaign, as well as all of the participating
artists for their trust and hard work.

And of course our wonderful backers! We

could not have completed this deck without
your love and support. I hope you enjoy the
booklet as well!

-Stephanie
How to read this booklet
Primary meanings will be up top
Reversal meanings will be below

Keywords are meant to provide a quick

summary of the card meanings at a glance.
Every Tarot deck is different and meanings
may change a bit from deck to deck- but
these are our interpretations.

You can choose to read your Tarot deck with

Reversals, which are inverted meanings
that you can use when a card appears
upside-down in a reading.
Whenever you see a quotation in a
box, you can attribute that quote to
the artist directly. Their writing has
been incorporated into all aspects of
the deck, but these quote blocks are
lengthier looks into their thoughts
and decisions.

Artist’s name will be here | Their social media tag

The Major Arcana
 The Fool
Potential, Freedom, Innocence
Blindness, Naïveté, Trickery

The Fool represents new beginnings, trusting

in the universe and having a sense of naïveté.
For the Fool it’s all about luck, about being
carefree and taking a leap of faith.

Shown here is an idyllic, playful scene in which

the main character is playing blindfolded and
feeling out her surroundings, trusting that her
feet (and her friends) will protect her.

5 SILVI | @SILVIPEPPERS
 I The Magician
Willpower, Expertise, Manifesting Goals
Manipulation, Powerlessness, Corruption

Raw potential is transmuted into knowledge

by the focused Magician, who embodies
willpower, expertise and change.

“In recreating Rider-Waite symbolism,

I focused on the connection between
the physical and spiritual. For spiritual
symbolism, there is the observatory-
style interior and background, while the
material side is represented by Floriography
icons- Hollyhocks and a Laurel crown on
the character for ambition, and Ferns for
enchantment and magic.”

PRINSOMNIA | @PRINSOMNIA.TUMBLR.COM 6
 II High Priestess
Intuition, The Unconscious, Magic
Uncertainty, Reliance on Others, Blindness

An embodiment of intuition and deep

knowledge of the inner self, the High Priestess
is a master of balance, classically seen
positioned between two pillars- one light and
one dark. She is mysterious, introspective and
wise. A natural mediator and a spiritual guide,
her dominion is the realm of the unconscious
mind.

7 KY TRAN | KYTRANART.COM
 III The Empress
Abundance, Nurture, Sensuality
Jealousy, Death, Suffocation

The Empress is meant to embody the

quintessential feminine principle that resides
within all of us. A deep connection with the
earth and nature connects her with themes
of fertility and abundance, seen in the
pomegranates that surround her. She presides
over growth, motherhood, and emotional
fulfillment.

STEPHANIE COST | STEPHANIEDRAWS.COM 8

 IV The Emperor
Discipline, Honor, Duty
Tyranny, Insecurity, Indecisiveness

The Emperor is a mythological father figure,

at times overbearing and strict but primarily
embodying protectiveness, discipline, and
control. Although the Emperor is unconcerned
with happiness or relying on intuition, he sees
himself as a servant of his people and is often a
highly effective and just leader.

9 ERICA LYN SCHMIDT | ERICALYNSCHMIDT.COM

 V The Hierophant
Conformity, Tradition, Ritual
Insurrection, Change, Challenge

The Hierophant is tradition itself. This

may represent an instition in your life with
established rituals and expectations, or an
established set of practices in your workplace
or home life.

Although this card can represent a stifling,

dogmatic figure, it can also point to a
comforting and grounding constant when
everything around you is changing.

JESZIKA LE VYE | JESZIKA.COM 10

 VI The Lovers
Love, Loyalty, Choices
Stagnation, Narcissism, Disconnection

Although typically championing the love between two people,

The Lovers can also often indicate a relationship between yourself
and your conscience or ideology.

Most commonly, this card signifies love, romance, or a strong

partnership, but sometimes when it appears in a reading it’s
possible you must choose between love and something else-
tradition, duty, or ambition.

11 LAURA SIADAK | FALLENLIGHTS.NET

 VII The Chariot
Discipline, Ambition, Focus
Disorientation, Aggression, Bedlam

The focus to balance conflicting energies into

one direction, creating momentum toward the
goals of the rider.

“I have attention deficit disorder, which made me feel

unproductive, without a direction or lacking the means
to achieve my goals. I’m a freelance artist, which makes
me rely only on my self discipline to work, in an age
where information overload is common.

This card represents everything I strive for in this

moment of my life, and I hope using this deck helps
others as well as it helped me.”

ROBSON MICHEL | @ROBMICHEL_ART 12

 VIII Strength
Courage, Compassion, Resilience
Paranoia, Weakness, Rage

The Strength card symbolizes pure resiliency.

Similarly to The Chariot, willpower is a core
theme when Strength appears in a reading,
but in this case it points to our inner reserves
rather than our outward ambitions. The
woman does not fight the lion, she tames it,
with both patience and compassion. When
danger threatens, courage and understanding
can help us to be strong.

13 TIFFANY TURRILL | TIFFANYTURRILL.COM

 IX The hermit
Wisdom, Rejuvenation, Introversion
Loneliness, Isolation, Surreality

The Hermit signifies introspection, a

withdrawal from civilization, a centering of the
spirit, and a guide for others to seek wisdom
from. The Hermit has no concern for dogma
or institution, only their personal relationship
with enlightenment.

This card may indicate a need to be alone, or

to wait and give a difficult decision its due
consideration.

STEPHANIE BROWN | OFFBEATWORLDS.COM 14

 X The Wheel of FOrtune
Fate, Unexpected Change, Luck
Fate, Curses, Patience

The Wheel of Fortune signifies change, and the

inevitable shifting of luck in our lives.

“I tried to have the card look correct

both upright as well as upside-down.
The top (when upright) is calm, with
Lady Fortune standing against a
bright background. When you turn it
around the flames on the wheel will
go correctly up and show chaos, with
a dark starry night as background.
Having this balance between good and
bad change in the card was important
to me.”

15 BARBARA LUCAS | SYLTHURIA.COM

 XI Justice
Truth, Accountability, Fairness
Avoidance, Unfairness, Brutality

Justice is eternal, and Justice always comes.

The Goddess is shown on a star field, with
a transcendence of the physical plane;
even beyond death and even in memories,
eventually what is right will surface.
“The image of weighing and judging
the heart against the feather after
death has captivated me since I was
a kid. Maat’s Hellenistic counterparts
with their scales are commonly seen,
so I wanted this Goddess with her
heart and feather to also have her
due.”

ASHLEY HANKINS | ASHLEYDOESARTSTUFF.COM 16

 XII The Hanged Man
Sacrifice, Reflection, Waiting
Dependence, Regret, Depletion

Look at the things that are bothering you with

a bird’s-eye view. You may be feeling stuck;
take your time and look at your situation with
a clear and honest mind, even if it is difficult or
painful.
“Within the armor, the blue/green
and round shapes stand for serenity,
the red and pointy for ambition. For
me it stands for a kind of impasse, a
situation that seems difficult to solve.
The tree is about being rooted, but also
having your head in the clouds.”

17 HENDRIK VISSER | HENDRIKVISSER.COM

 XIII Death
Metamorphosis, Change, Endings
Resistance, Delay, Lingering

Often misunderstood, the Death card

embodies Tarot’s cyclical story of endings
and beginnings. Though frightening, Death
represents growth and evolution.

Like a caterpillar losing its form within

a chrysalis, you are undergoing great
transformation. You cannot go back. The old
version of yourself and your old life are being
shed to make way for a stronger and wiser
person.

STEVIERAEDRAWN | STEVIERAEDRAWN.COM 18
 XIV Temperance
Balance, Serenity, Mindfulness
Excess, Loss of Control, Extremism

Temperance is a shining call to a more

balanced life. To be always half in the outer
material world and half within oneself takes
thought and discipline, as both sides of
your life deserve care and cultivation. Avoid
extremes or excess.

19 KELLY MCKERNAN | KELLYMCKERNAN.COM

 XV The Devil
Temptation, Vice, Oppression
Inner Conflict, Introspection, Acceptance

The Devil appears when we are feeling at

our most powerless or tempted. Addiction
in some form is keeping you trapped, and
the Devil’s chains will need to be broken if
you are to move forward. If this card appears
when indicating another person in your life,
be cautious of their motivations and influence
over your choices.

GAWKI | GAWKI.NET 20
 XVI The Tower
Calamity, Trauma, Upheaval
Dependence, Inevitability, Fresh Starts

A dreaded moment of sudden destruction

and chaos that may lead to revelation or
revolution. Solve et coagula. The dissolution
that must precede metamorphosis. The
Tower is a card that asks:

“What must be stripped away in order to

make room for new growth?”

21 SOVEREIGN | SVRGN.ART
 XVII The Star
Faith, Courage, Hope
Doubt, Faithlessness, Overwhelm

Disaster has struck, but all hope is not lost.

Directly following after the calamity of The
Tower, this card represents a daunting moment
of inner courage and faith. We have made it
through the long night, and can see a bright
point above us.

Although The Star carries themes of grief and

exhaustion, it also promises recovery, survival,
and endurance through great hardship.

PHILIP BYERS | THEELSELANDS.COM 22

 XVIII The Moon
Intuition, Fear, Illusion
Instability, Self-Examination, Falsehood

Temptation, illusion, intuition and truth.

The Moon is a soulful light that calls you to

connect to your deepest knowledge as you
continue down your path.

“The crawdad represents your purest,

most childlike self. The spear in its side
is an old trauma that weighs on the back
of the stray dog- caught between wild
instincts and domestic expectations.

She carries the burden of a cruel world,

and sees enemies where there are none,
misinterpreting everything around her.”

23 ARIA FAWN | ARIAFAWN.COM

 XIX The Sun
Joy, Love, Affection
Depression, Tribulation, Futility

The Sun is a true moment of joy. When this

card appears it represents happiness, success,
exuberance, generosity and kindness. You
are a beacon to those around you. Youthful
energy brings a renewal of optimism, and the
hardships of the past have been overcome. You
are reforged and stronger than before.

JULIA LUNDMAN | JULIALUNDMAN.COM 24

 XX Judgement
Honesty, Atonement, Introspection
Despair, Attrition, Responsibility

Judgement is a ‘resonating note’ - a sound so

powerful it raises the dead and draws all toward
it. Here the trumpeting Angel of Judgement is
both instrument and conductor, resonating and
merging with the souls and
sounds. Judgement signifies “The art is inspired by the
a transformation, a new start, visualization of sound-
or a calling that cannot be especially the Fermata, a
prolonged note that can
ignored.
signify a pause or the
end of a phrase, before
something new beings.”

25 CARLY A-F | CARLYDRAWS.COM

 XXI The World
Completion, Nirvana, Accomplishment
Inevitability, Emptiness, Apocalypse

Apotheosis. The World is the last note in a

perfect song: here we reach the ending of one
cycle and prepare to start anew. After all of our
trials, we finally see the perfect union of our
inner selves and the outer world.

“Droplets in an ocean. For all the vivid hatred

and love we’ve placed onto one and another,
in the end, we are all alone. We are stardust on
our voyage to return to the great voluminous
cosmos.”

“The Cosmos is all that is or ever was, or ever

will be.” - Carl Sagan

PUI CHE| PUILLUSTRATED.COM 26

The minor Arcana

27
 Ace of Wands
Initiation, Spark, Excitement
Distraction, Abandonment, Fickleness

The first spark of passion, drive, action

and enthusiasm. Initiatory, it has the wild,
uncomplicated excitement that comes with
beginnings. The start of a new endeavor, the
potential for great achievements, the first strike
to shape red-hot iron.

“I chose iron because of the way

it transfers heat, throws sparks
and responds to the creative
impulse. The suit of Wands
represents fire and action. When
you draw this card, expect that
the situation in question has
an element of newness and
creativity.”

28 INGRID KALLICK | IKALLICK.COM

 Two of Wands
Preparation, Risk-Taking, Goals
Avoidance, Fear of the Unknown, Paralysis

With the excitement of a new idea comes

the next stage in a journey or project. Turn
daydreams and raw energy into an actionable
plan. Now is the time to chart a course for
yourself, to gather supplies, and to take stock of
what comes next and what you may need.

“What I love most about the Two of Wands is

that it has a “setting out on an adventure” feel to
it. It really resonated with me because I love those
quiet moments just before the crescendo- that
feeling of being on the cusp of something great.”

JENNIFER PEIG | JENNIFERPEIG.COM & 29

ELAINE RYAN | ELAINERYANART.COM
 Three of Wands
Growth, Confidence, Construction
Delay, Frustration, Doubt

The Three of Wands is about preparing to

travel, to move forward and leave what or
where you’re comfortable with. Look for
opportunities around you and keep an open
mind: your journey is just beginning. Now
is the time for planning and thinking about
your goals and life in the long term, not just
the here and now.

“Here a young Fae prepares

to leave his home in search of
something new, his feathered
friends offering him sticks from
their own nest material to help
him on his upcoming journey.”

30 KATCH | KATCH.CREVADO.COM
 Four Of Wands
Celebration, Haven, Homecoming
Tension, Loneliness, Spontaneity

Though fire is often considered

a destructive force, it can be
manipulated in dance and
song as an artistic form of
self-expression. Even better
when choreographed with
some friends! This is a time of
joy and support, a welcoming
environment or a holiday.

WILLOWESCAPEE | @WILLOWESCAPEE 31
 Five of Wands
Conflict, Misunderstanding, Rivalry
Isolation, Avoidance, Stifled Emotions

Five fiery combatants compete amongst

themselves, weaving in and out of the blaze.
Their tempers, misunderstandings and
failure to compromise are all fuel for
this fire: this is a moment of strain upon
relationships, and of distraction.

Much like a forest fire, however,

this moment of strife can also be an
opportunity for renewal. What is standing
in the way of true teamwork in your life?

32 GWENEVERE SINGLEY | GWENSINGLEY.COM

 Six of Wands
Victory, Recognition, Success
Defeat, Shame, Hubris
The Six of Wands represents returning home
after a hard-fought victory. Having successfully
navigated the conflict behind you, you are
now enjoying praise for your hard work. The
journey, however, does not end here.

“A woman rides atop a white

horse, bearing her wand and
wreath high, a standard that
represents her success. A
celebration in a wheat field takes
place around her as her harvest
can now begin. She is recognized,
respected, and acknowledged by
herself and by all.”

LAUREN BROWN | LABILLUSTRATION.COM 33

 Seven of wands
Defense, Authorship, Independence
Strife, Exhaustion, Endurance

The theme of the Seven of Wands is resiliency

in the face of challenge. You have achieved
some milestone or measure of success, but
challengers approach from all sides- and
they are not always easy to identify. Maintain
your position of authority and your forward
momentum. Defend your successes from
external, as well as internal, sources of doubt
and distraction.

34 DUSTIN PANZINO | INKWELLILLUSTRATIONS.COM

 Eight of Wands
Action, Adaptability, Movement
Fear, Being Lost, Paralysis

Change is coming. Your actions now are

fast and fresh as new challenges come upon
you, but you are not overburdened. Instead,
newly-forged by your past successes, you are
determining the shape of your own future with
energy and skill.
“Movement and speed!
Jumpy little birbs peep
in the trees as the maned
wolf looks up at the sound
curiously. There are eight
branches in this piece,
stretched over a fluid river
of shining gold grass.”

CARI CORENE | FLORALFROLIC.COM 35

 Nine of Wands
Perseverance, Exhaustion, Determination
Rigidity, Recklessness, Depletion

The Nine of Wands represents a

last stand or a final push, on the
brink of success amidst a long
journey or struggle. When you
are exhausted and perhaps even
injured, now you can see your goal
in sight, at the end of one final
uphill climb, having moved past
previous challenges represented by
the other eight Wands.

36 SAM GAUSS | SAMGAUSS.COM

 Ten of Wands
Duty, Delegation, Boundaries
Disillusionment, Burnout, Apathy

Separate truth from undue burdens and

obligations. In the pursuit of a genuine
existence, you are the only person who can
truly know your own limits. Decide what can
and cannot be asked of you. Your convictions
can end or begin paths.
“A sky burial, an exhumation of
a corpse by carrion birds. This
person once carried fire
and now it is their turn
to rest under the fire that
others have brought. This
static and uninhabited shell
of a person will be carried
on wings far above the rest
of the human world.”

JONATHAN VAIR DUNCAN | JONATHANVAIR.COM 37

 Page of Wands
Inspiration, Energy, Potential
Haste, Fickleness, Boredom

The Page of Wands is a figure of

boundless potential and curiosity.
The world is open to the Page, who
is like a dormant spark of energy
waiting to be ignited with purpose.

If this card represents you, you may

be experiencing hesitation about
your next step forward in life. Have
courage. Follow your impulse to
learn, and see where your passions
take you.

38 CELESTIAL FANG | ARTSTATION.COM/CELESTIALFANG

 knight of Wands
Risk, Action, Boldness
Impatience, Entanglements, Repetition

The Knight of Wands, uninhibited by both

physical and mental pitfalls, is all energy, and
his energy is going in one direction: forward.
Nothing impedes this figure, though perhaps
something should.

The Knight’s only vulnerability is lack of

foresight. Although the Knight symbolizes
rashness, there are often times in life when his
boldness is necessary.

KIM STRAMAT | KSTRAMAT.COM 39

 Queen of Wands
Grit, Courage, Charisma
Willpower, Conceit, Vengeance

The Queen of Wands embodies bold confidence,

bravery, self-assurance, and decisive grit. There
is also an element of charisma, and in this
painting we see the Queen with one of her
dearest friends, the black cat. The cat is a part
of herself, her shadow side, and when they are
in harmony they achieve more than they ever
could apart.

She is fortified with self-love, unafraid to be

brilliant; to some, she may seem selfish, but to
others, she is energy incarnate. In her powerful,
energetic state, she shares her gifts openly and
acts as a boon to those around her.

40 CASEY GERBER | CASEYGERBERCREATIVE.COM

 King of Wands
Guidance, Creativity, Leadership
Paralysis, Ennui, Doubt

Like all Kings in the Tarot, the King of

Wands embodies an aspect of leadership.
He is a creative powerhouse, a trailblazer
and a luminary in the realm of ambition and
entrepreneurship.

Whatever project the King starts, he finishes.

Often, the King points to an assertive and
creative role-model in our lives. If you yourself
are represented by the King of Wands, it may
be time to act as a mentor to others.

KEKAI KOTAKI | KEKAIART.COM 41

 ace of coins
Beginnings, Wealth, Opportunity
Bad Luck, Delay, Risk

Like a tiny seed, the Ace of Coins is a

manifestation of new beginnings and new
ideas. From this kernel of effort and energy,
many things are possible.

“Classically shown as a coin being

offered up by a hand emerging from
clouds, here the Ace depicts a god-
like figure bringing support, be it in a
material way (seen in the gold regalia)
or in a more spiritual way, bringing
strength and confidence to aid your
endeavors.”

42 SHAD | ARTSTATION.COM/SHADPAINTINGS
 two of coins
Harmony, Balance, Devotion
Imbalance, Stress, Disorder

The Two of Coins is a juggling act. Wealth,

love, health, material pursuits- these are
aspects of your life that must be balanced.

If the Two of Coins appears in a reading, you

must consider what projects or parts of your
life are most important to you, and prioritize
them. Don’t spread yourself too thin, or you’ll
risk losing control.

IRENE TORCAL | UMERART.WIXSITE.COM/UMERA 43

 three of coins
Cooperation, Planning, Apprenticeship
Ego, Competition, Haste

Cooperation and teamwork are key.

Although you may have ambitions of
being a master in your field, this is not
a time to stand alone.

Like the apprentice looking upon

great works of artistry, you are in a
position where it may be easy to be
overwhelmed or to make mistakes,
unless you embrace the guidance
and teamwork of those around you.
Collaborate: everyone has something
unique to bring to the table.

44 BRENDAN MURPHY | BRENDANMURPHY.COM

 four of coins
Stability, Investment, Expansion
Greed, Loss, Obsession

The Four of Coins appearing in a reading

indicates that you are currently holding onto
the resources that you’ve managed to attain. A
figure clutches a Coin to their chest, loath to let
it go- this is not always a sign of greed.

You may finally be in a position to invest what

you’ve earned into future ventures. Be wary
of becoming overly protective, and enjoy this
moment of security.

JULIA POWELL | JULIAPOWELL.COM 45

 five of coins
Poverty, Hardship, Bad Luck
Recovery, Reclamation, Forgiveness

The Five of Coins symbolizes hardships,

especially in the financial realm, and the
dangers of paying too much attention to what
is directly at your feet, as opposed to the wealth
of the world around you. You may be spending
too much time and energy on a small
seed of an idea or thought, and losing
track of the bigger picture.

46 LAURA GARABEDIAN | FAIRYTALESWITHTAILS.COM

 six of coins
Abundance, Charity, Blessings
Arrogance, Manipulation, Debt

A bad situation is going to transition

into something better. A moment of
generosity, where you feel as if things
are returning to where they belong.
Harmony is restored, and either your
life, or the lives of those around you,
will find balance again.

The Koi fish depicted symbolize wealth

and prosperity, and are returning to
the figure crowned with pentacles. She
represents golden abundance, and is
in a position to bestow it upon others
now as well.

ERNANDA SOUZA | ERNANDASOUZA.COM 47

 seven of coins
Investment, Potential, Dedication
Failure, Withering, Diminishing Returns

When the Seven of Coins appears, you

must put your heart into your goals,
projects and aspirations. Dedicate your
time to them and watch them flourish:
don’t rush. This is the long game, if
you are too impatient your work will
wither and die on the vine.

In this card, the man spends every

waking moment and drop of his
heart’s blood to make his work bear
fruit. Beware of exhaustion and
burnout.

48 A J RAMSEY | AJRAMSEYART.COM
 eight of coins
Investment, Potential, Dedication
Haste, Laziness, Low Standards

The Eight of Coins represents mastery of a

skill, and the grit and grind to achieve it. Our
craftsperson has nearly reached the peak of the
tree they’re adorning. They’ve worked hard to
get there- the labyrinth representing the time
and work they’ve dedicated to the task.

Like the figure in the tree, you have come

very far- don’t stop now.

MATTHEW SPENCER | MSPENCERILLUSTRATION.COM 49

 nine of coins
Prosperity, Confidence, Dominion
Fatigue, Wounds, Imprudence

Opulence at the end of a long journey. This

card depicts a woman who is surrounded
by hard-won abundance, but it is difficult to
discern her distant expression: quiet relief,
or numb detachment? While she has fought
her way to this point of safety and stability,
she may not realize that her full potential is
not yet realized.
“This card points toward
accomplishment and success
that has been truly earned.
It represents balance, and
indulgence without excess. It is
time to enjoy the finer things
that your hard work has rightly
brought you.”

50 RACHEL BRADLEY | IMRACHELBRADLEY.COM

 ten of coins
Legacy, Success, Patronage
Estrangement, Brevity, Family Conflict

The Ten of Coins shows us strong family ties,

and the preservation of the legacy of one’s
ancestors, as well as the achievement of a
strong legacy of our own.

When family ties are maintained, future

generations reap the benefit of both financial
and familial stability.

INA-ISA | @INA_ISA_ 51
 page of coins
Potential, New Opportunities, Courage
Distraction, Overwhelm, Laziness

The Page of Coins represents a

manifestation of goals, in both financial
opportunities and the development of skills.
The fertile plains depicted on the card hold
the promise of abundance, and the rocky
mountains signify the challenges that you
will face on your journey of discovery.
Ambition and cleverness are hallmarks of
the enterprising Page.

52 HARMONY GONG | HARMONYGONG.COM

 knight of coins
Momentum, Diligence, Efficiency
Burdens, Frustration, Plateauing

The Knight of Coins, unlike their counterpart

in the suit of Wands, is level-headed, well
prepared, and pragmatic. This figure is in touch
with not only the natural world around them,
but their own work ethic and impulses. They’re
direct and hard-working, and they champion
diligence and responsibility.

If the Knight appears in a reading, they are

often there to warn us not to slow or stray from
the path.

MARLOWE LUNE | MARLOWELUNE.COM 53

 queen of coins
Pragmatism, Business Expertise, Motherhood
Extravagance, Caprice, Sensuality

Intrinsically tied to the earth and the gifts of

Mother Nature, the Queen of Coins is a master
of her home and her domain. Pragmatic and
reliable, she governs and nurtures in equal
measure.

Don’t let her homey associations deceive

you, however. This Queen is also a master of
strategy, negotation and business.

54 DAN ZOLLINGER | DANZOLLINGER-ARTIST.COM

 king of coins
Reliability, Self-Made, Stewardship
Hoarding, Gluttony, Selfishness

The King of Coins represents wealth

and success through hard work and
determination. The King is thoughtful,
deliberate, and well respected. Assertiveness.
Strength of will. Productivity through
discipline, not wishful thinking. Hard
work, but also the ability and importance of
enjoying the fruits of your labour. Leadership.
Resilience. A strong negotiator.

In Western astrology, this card relates to the

earth signs, specifically that of Taurus.

SAM GUSHUE | SAMGUSHUE.COM 55

 ace of swords
Clarity, Epiphany, Truth
Chaos, Disorder, Doubt

The Ace of Swords comes upon us like a bolt

of lightning, representing surety, ideas, and
conviction. This is a moment of great focus,
where clarity literally cuts through the fog of
ignorance or deceit.

Classically, the blade is depicted with a double

edge, an early warning that a strong intellect is
a gift and a source of power, but that it can also
do great damage if it is misused.

56 ANTHONY MORAVIAN | MORAVIANART.COM

 two of swords
Choice, Balance, Indecision
Hesitancy, No-Win Situations, Confusion

You are faced with a challenging decision,

and uncertain which direction to follow. The
light and dark figure represent two opposing
choices- perhaps of self-discovery, of external
pressures from family, career, of friends, of
spirituality or religion.

“These choices hold

the power or control as
represented in the swords.
It is up to the main figure
to take it- but with covered
eyes, the decision is
unclear.”

ANNA CHRISTENSON | ANNACHRISTENSON.COM 57

 three of swords
Pain, Dismay, Grief
Healing, Forgiveness, Recovery

The Three of Swords pierce a heart in one of

the most dreaded and visceral depictions in
Tarot. Here the heart is depicted vibrantly,
populated with a vast collection of lives.

Although this card indicates a moment of

great pain and betrayal, it asks us to remain
courageous, compassionate and resilient
through our hardships. Learn from this
experience, and you’ll be more equipped for
the greater trials ahead.

58 JENNIFER CHARLEE | FAIRYTAILFOXDESIGNS.COM

 four of swords
Rest, Recuperation, Withdrawal
Torment, Restlessness, Responsibility

The Four of Swords indicates a time of

resilience, peace, and recovery. Classically
depicting a knight worn down by battle, this
card cautions us that rest will soon be vital if
we are to continue forward.

Often the wounds we sustain can compound

and go undetected unless we’re vigilant to our
own mental and emotional needs. You may feel
vulnerable, burned out, or weakened. It’s time
to take a break.

ANDREW THOMPSON | SCHMANDREWART.COM 59

 five of swords
Ruthlessness, Competition, Defeat
Exhaustion, Burnout, Reconciliation

The Five of Swords is all about conflict,

disagreements, competition, defeat, and
winning at all costs. This is a warning but also
a call to action: things may go awry but you
will fight back and you will go on, no matter
what. Stand up for yourself.

“A powerful and unapologetic

warrior. She is bracing herself for
what battle has to come and we can
see swords from her previous wins
and losses planted in the grounds
behind her, staying in the past as
she goes forward, unafraid.”

60 MARIE MAGNY | ARTSTATION.COM/SKYZOCAT

 six of swords
Release, Escape, Departure
Entrapment, Toxicity, Stagnation

A melancholy and difficult turning point in

your life is upon you. Like the Four or Eight of
Cups, this is a crossroads of decision-making
that relates directly to your inner contentment.
The Six of Swords asks us to evaluate our ennui
or dissatisfaction from a logical point of view.

Analyze your priorities, trust your instincts

and reasoning. You may find yourself
abandoning a toxic environment; this is the
card of journeying, retreats, and renewal.

VALENTINE SMITH | VALENTINEMSMITH.COM 61

 Seven of swords
Deception, Creativity, Subterfuge
Guilt, Cunning, Conscience

Deception, cunning and subterfuge are

characterized by the figure carrying away the
swords of their enemies. This is the card of
underhanded triumph, of getting away with
something.

You may have a secret that you want to bury,

or feel cornered or forced into a situation that
has no clean or moral solution. This may be a
useful time to be clever or sly, but be aware of
the mental cost of keeping such secrets.

62 HEIDI BLACK | ELECTRICABYSS.COM

 eight of swords
Victimization, Helplessness, Blindness
Maturity, Self-Actualization, Power

The cage of swords, formed of sharp spikes

and spines, is not impossible to escape if
we become aware of its nature and unblind
ourselves to the truth of our situation.

Circular thinking and victimhood are central

themes to the Eight of Swords. You may feel
as if you’re being trapped or manipulated;
something is keeping you from seeing the
problem clearly and recognizing your true
autonomy.

KATE MITERKO | KATEMITERKO.COM 63

 nine of swords
Dread, Anxiety, Trauma
Recovery, Reaching Out, Guilt

Grim, sleepless nights haunt

your life as of late. This
is the card of anxiety and
obsessive negative thinking.
You may be experiencing
great guilt, fear, or
unresolved trauma.

If the source of your anxiety

isn’t explored and resolved,
your mind will become a
cage.

64 NARGES JAFARI | NARGESART.COM

 ten of swords
Endings, Crisis, Betrayal
Inevitability, Scars, Reconstruction

An absolute end, through pain, betrayal, crisis

or loss. A new beginning is on the horizon.

“We hurt when we grow. Our bones ache

when they lengthen, as our muscles cry out
for mercy as they gain in size, and our heart,
too, clenches in grief as we lose moments and
loved ones. Each time we are struck by pain,
there is a foundation of growth under it. As
the footsteps of the world trample over the
ground of your soul, it becomes tempered and
remastered into something strong.”

ELAINE RYAN | ELAINERYANART.COM 65

 page of swords
Communication, Energy, Creativity
Haste, Empty Promises, All-Talk

A figure that represents curiosity, inspiration

and new ideas. Always quick to speak or
present a new outlook on a problem, she is
intelligent and vivacious, full of energy and
eager to communicate.
“The Page is looking ahead
to what’s to come, standing
in a field of flowers
symbolizing that their
ideas are likely to flourish
and bring about positive
change.”

66 LORENA LAMMER | LORENALA-ART.COM

 Knight of swords
Boldness, Focus, Assertion
Impulsiveness, Speed, Inexperience

A champion of the suit of intellect and the

element of air, the Knight of Swords brings
forth his gifts with the rapidity of thought
itself. Drawing the Knight indicates a period
of clarity and inspiration, sometimes with
overwhelming speed.

Weigh your actions carefully- this messenger

can lack foresight and wisdom, though his
boldness and conviction are invaluable to those
struggling with a choice that needs to be made.

KAT G BIRMELIN | KATGBIRMELIN.SQUARESPACE.COM 67

 queen of swords
Impartiality, Logic, Perspective
Isolation, Relentlessness, Toxicity

Traditionally representing an older and more

experienced leader, the Queen of Swords is
decisive and just.

Swift thinking, logical solutions, and difficult

decisions all characterize this Queen, although
she can struggle with being perceived as cold
or indifferent to others. She embodies fairness,
and can serve as a warning against allowing
our emotions to get the better of us.

68 LOUIS PICARD | LOUIS_PICARD.ARTSTATION.COM

 king of swords
Impartiality, Ethics, Responsibility
Tyranny, Manipulation, Brutality

Intelligence and perception are embodied by

the King of Swords, who navigates the inner
and outer worlds with equal mastery. This
figure tempers justice with wisdom, and is
capable of drawing conclusions from what he
observes without merely reacting to it.

When he appears in a reading, he is urging us

to view the world with an impartial eye, and to
be compassionate as well as fair.

TOBY CURDEN | TOBYCURDEN.COM 69

 ace of cups
Depth, Compassion, Connection
Entitlement, Indulgence, Self-Obsession

In the Ace of Cups, a new relationship

or connection, or deep passion is on the
horizon. Here, the brightness of the full moon
illuminates the scene, a sign of everything you
have worked for coming to fruition.

The goblet overflows with golden drops of

creativity, becoming one with the body of water
below, the cormorant sits majestically, wings
stretched out, basking in all that there is and
that there will be.

70 NYWN | NYWN.ART
 two of cups
Equality, Communion, Partnership
Imbalance, Strife, Miscommunication

The Two of Cups signifies a union of perfect

equals, either in romance, friendship or
a business partnership. Traditionally this
card’s symbols- the caduceus and winged
lion- convey balance as well as dynamic
passion and energy brought by both sides.

“I thought the alliance of two

very different kingdoms, with
emissaries that seem to share
more than a professional
interest in one another,
would perfectly show how
much potential hinges on
this moment.”

KAMI HINES | @TANOOKAMI 71

 three of cups
Happiness, Reunions, Friendship
Jealousy, Resentment, Loneliness

A happy time amongst loved ones is

represented by the classic image of three
figures gathered together. The depiction of
hands is emblematic of the Three of Cups;
human connection, expression and empathy
are all conveyed with our hands. This is a time
of relaxation and reunion between friends and
family.

72 ALLEN PANAKAL | ALLENPANAKAL.COM

 four of cups
Ennui, Seclusion, Introspection
Indecision, Languishing, Lost Potential

This card conveys a sense of dissatisfaction

with one’s everyday life. Perhaps things have
been the same for a while and although you’re
receiving opportunities, you’re turning them
down because they simply don’t interest you.

The Four of Cups shows up as a mindset of

stagnation, where we are not willing to accept
new blessings or opportunities; perhaps
because we feel our cups are full already or
maybe that we don’t deserve them.

MEGAN KOCH | ARTSTATION.COM/MEGANKOCH 73

 five of cups
Grief, Despair, Regret
Reclamation, Fortitude, Rejuvenation

The Five of Cups depicts grief forcing

a woman to focus only on her loss, not
acknowledging the remaining bright cups
that stand upright behind her. You may
be dwelling on the things you have lost,
unable to see positivity or the assets and
opportunities you still have.

It’s timeto move on past feelings of loss and

loneliness, and remember that good things
and new opportunities are waiting.

74 CAITLIN FOWLER | CAITLINFOWLER.COM

 six of cups
Nostalgia, Naïveté, Innocence
Lingering, Wistfulness, False Memories

As we return to the innocence of losing an

afternoon within our own imagination, we
experience a nostalgia that is saturated in blush
tones; overwhelming, slightly unreal, and
without stains or imperfections.

You are finding solace in revisiting what you

once loved dearly. There is some thought
of not worrying about your current issues,
surrounded and framed by an encompassing
backdrop to keep you safe from the reality of
your obligations.

ELAINE RYAN | ELAINERYANART.COM 75

 seven of cups
Daydreaming, Possibility, Wishful Thinking
Temptation, Unrealistic Expectations, Fantasy

Choice and abundance! Life is constantly

throwing gifts and opportunities our way, and
we need to seize the day. The Seven of Cups
is the card of dreamers and of daydreaming.
Whether you’re afraid or excited for what’s to
come, be careful not to get too caught up
in the possibilities and neglect to take real
action that will get you to those goals. If you
can remain grounded, the future is full of
opportunity.

76 MARGARITA BOURKOVA | MARGAWART.COM

 eight of cups
Ennui, Searching, Divergence
Sacrifice, Stagnation, Dissatisfaction

Eight of Cups usually symbolizes a long

journey for something that is missing; perhaps
something was lost or perhaps one is searching
for something they never had.
“Each cup represents a potential path the figure
might take; the large cup at the bottom is the
path he’s already on, his feet stuck deep in the
river between the mountains that he’s been
treading for so long.

He’s blindfolded, as there is no true ‘right’

choice. Either way, he’s made his choice
and now prepares to leave his past mistakes
behind.”

JON NEIMEISTER | JONNEIMEISTER.COM 77

 nine of cups
Wish Fulfillment, Blessings, Comfort
Bad Luck, Taking Risks, Lingering Dissatisfaction

Often known as the wish card, the Nine of Cups

comes to us at a stage in our emotional journey
when we are finally feeling self-actualized.
No longer at the mercy of great upheaval or
imbalance, whatever endeavor we’ve been
working on is almost concluded, and we
can experience a moment of tranquility and
happiness. Success is just around the corner.

78 TANGMO CECCINI | ARTOFTANGMO.COM

 ten of cups
Happily-Ever-After, Family, Home
Estrangement, Toxicity, Broken Homes

The ultimate triumph of emotional fulfillment

and inner balance. The successful but isolated
figure in the Nine of Cups has now joined
with others and the journey of the Cups is
complete in the idyllic and open-hearted
group atmosphere. In this space, the wisdom
and passion you have gained can now fully be
realized as you share it with those closest to
you.

DEVIN ELLE KURTZ | DEVINELLEKURTZ.COM 79

 page of cups
Dreamer, Exuberance, Curiosity
Escapism, Vulnerability, Distortion

Creativity, unexpected messages, curiosity,

and new creative opportunities: the Page can
be naive, but is also an intuitive and exuberant
source of inspiration to those around them.

“I decided that in my version

of this card, the page would
become the fish, and the cups,
the lotus flowers. They are
surrounded by an abundance
of creativity. Perhaps this
Page has come to give you
a message? Perhaps it is
journeying into unexplored
waters?”

80 NIKY MOTEKALLEM | NIKYMOTEKALLEM.COM

 knight of cups
Sensitivity, Idealism, Diplomacy
Sensationalism, Loss of Control, Moodiness

The Knight of Cups heralds a new

emotional journey, often a relationship or
a deeply affecting time of self-discovery.
They may bring emotional upheaval in their
wake, but are supremely in touch with their
own emotions and often represent figures
in our lives that understand the value of
passion and kindness. The Knight often
urges us to act with integrity in all things,
and to follow our hearts.

M. BRACKETT (QUEL) | QUELFABULOUS.CARRD.CO 81

 queen of cups
Compassion, Empathy, Femininity
Cruelty, Festering Emotions, Toxicity

A paragon of compassion, the Queen of

Cups is a guiding light of comfort and
understanding. Her depth of empathy and
kindness impacts the lives of everyone
around her. Known for her great intuition,
she represents emotional maturity, love, and
forgiveness.

82 MAYARA SAMPAIO | ARTSTATION.COM/MAYARASAMPAIO

 king of cups
Serenity, Wisdom, Balance
Cruelty, Avarice, Callousness

Someone wise, and good with words, who is

sensitive, in touch with nature, and interested
in many fields of learning. These qualities are
embodied by the immortal Chiron from Greek
Mythology, who Homer called the wisest and
justest of all the centaurs. He was renowned
as a healer, an oracle, and a sagacious teacher
for many students. The pink flowers strewn
throughout the card are centaury, the herb that
cured a mortal wound he sustained.

KEVIN JAY STANTON | KEVINJAYSTANTON.COM 83

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