Kaleidadope Tarot : A Dope Deck

The Kaleidadope Tarot, created by artist Krystal Banner, is a 78-card deck that aims to modernize tarot by incorporating diverse representation and vibrant, contemporary artwork. Launched on Kickstarter in 2018, the project was inspired by Banner's personal journey of self-discovery through tarot and her observation of a lack of diversity and outdated visuals in existing decks. The deck seeks to make divination more accessible and inclusive for a wider audience.

Each card features original illustrations that blend colorful aesthetics with symbolic depth, designed to appeal to both tarot novices and experienced readers who rely on intuition. The campaign emphasizes the deck's ability to connect with individuals who might feel disconnected by traditional, monoracial imagery and antiquated symbolism. The artwork is intended to be easy to grasp while still offering deeper meanings, reflecting Banner's artistic style which she describes as tangible and aesthetically interesting.

The physical deck was planned to include 78 originally illustrated cards, a guidebook, and a hardcover two-part box. The cards were designed to measure approximately 2.75" x 4.75" and be printed on 300gsm card stock. Although the Kickstarter campaign did not reach its funding goal, the vision for the Kaleidadope Tarot was to provide a tool for self-connection and spiritual exploration, challenging negative perceptions of tarot through relatable imagery and a focus on personal well-being.

This deck is ideal for tarot readers seeking a modern, inclusive, and visually vibrant experience. It particularly appeals to individuals who value diverse representation in their spiritual tools and those who find traditional tarot imagery outdated or unrelatable. Beginners will appreciate the 'easy to grasp symbolism,' while experienced readers who rely on intuition and deeper meanings will find its contemporary approach engaging. Collectors interested in art-forward decks with a strong cultural statement will also be drawn to its unique aesthetic.

Krystal Banner, the creator of Kaleidadope, started her business in January 2017 with the mission of increasing interest in art through relatable themes and a focus on representation. Her journey to creating the Kaleidadope Tarot began with her personal discovery of tarot and a realization about the lack of diversity and dated visuals in existing decks. Despite initially avoiding the extensive work involved in illustrating 78 cards, Banner felt a strong, unexplainable pull and experienced significant synchronicity, leading her to begin working on the deck in October 2017. She describes the creation process as therapeutic, drawing three to four pieces a day during the holidays, driven by a desire to educate and change negative perceptions of tarot.