Occult Ornithology Tarot

The Occult Ornithology Tarot is a 22-card Major Arcana deck illustrated by Katie Whittle, a UK-based artist known for her work in indie comics and horror. This deck, successfully funded on Kickstarter in 2020, reimagines the core archetypes of the Major Arcana through the lens of avian symbolism and a distinctive, slightly dark aesthetic. Each card features a different bird, carefully chosen to reflect the traditional meaning of the Major Arcana card it represents, such as a crow for Justice or an owl for The Hermit.

The deck's visual style is characterized by intricate line work, a rich, jewel-toned color palette, and prominent gold foiling on both the front and back of the cards, as well as gilded edges. This luxurious production quality enhances the deck's mystical and collectible appeal. The accompanying 48-page guidebook provides insights into each card, bridging the avian imagery with its tarot significance. The project successfully unlocked several stretch goals, indicating strong community support for Whittle's unique artistic vision.

While focusing exclusively on the Major Arcana, the Occult Ornithology Tarot offers a complete and cohesive experience for those interested in deeper archetypal work or collecting visually stunning decks. Its blend of natural symbolism with an occult undertone makes it a distinctive addition to any tarot collection, appealing to readers who appreciate both artistic craftsmanship and thematic depth.

The artwork is characterized by a detailed, illustrative style with strong linework and a vibrant, yet often moody, color palette. Deep teals, rich oranges, and dark purples are prominent, creating a sense of mystery and depth. Each card features a central bird figure, rendered with anatomical precision but also imbued with a stylized, almost mythic quality. The gold foiling is a key visual element, observed on the card titles, borders, and intricate details within the illustrations, adding a luxurious and magical touch. The overall aesthetic is reminiscent of gothic illustration or dark fantasy art, with a clear influence from Whittle's background in horror comics. The imagery is complex and layered, inviting close inspection.

This deck is ideal for tarot collectors who appreciate unique, art-driven decks, particularly those with a focus on the Major Arcana. It will appeal to readers interested in bird symbolism, occult themes, and dark fantasy aesthetics. Fans of indie comics and horror art will also find Katie Whittle's distinctive style compelling. While not a full 78-card deck, its depth makes it suitable for experienced readers seeking a specialized tool for archetypal exploration or for those who enjoy working exclusively with the Major Arcana.

Katie Whittle is a 31-year-old illustrator from Liverpool, UK, with a lifelong passion for comics, horror, and fantasy. She began drawing comics at age 12 and is a strong supporter of the indie comics scene. Katie co-founded Frisson Comics with Tom Smith, where they have co-created titles like 'Take Only Photographs, Leave Only Footprints' and 'The Trade,' and regularly produce horror zines. Her work on the Occult Ornithology Tarot reflects her artistic background and interest in dark, fantastical themes, bringing a unique aesthetic to the world of divination.