Pick a Card: A Burlesque Exploration of Tarot part 2

The "Pick a Card: A Burlesque Exploration of Tarot part 2" campaign, launched in 2014, was primarily a fundraising effort for a burlesque show that interpreted tarot themes through live performance. The project aimed to feature both national and international burlesque performers, translating the archetypes and narratives of the tarot into a dynamic, stage-based format. The campaign successfully raised $8,315 from 175 backers, indicating a strong community interest in the intersection of burlesque and divination.

While the core offering was the live show, the campaign also offered various merchandise and experiences as backer rewards. These included art prints of specific tarot designs, custom-made pasties, t-shirts, and exclusive video footage of the show. Notably, one reward tier explicitly mentioned "the deck of performer cards," suggesting that a physical card deck featuring the performers in their tarot-inspired roles was produced as part of the project. This deck would likely serve as a commemorative item from the show, rather than a traditional reading deck.

The project highlights a creative and interdisciplinary approach to tarot, moving beyond traditional card illustration to encompass live art and performance. The focus on individual performers embodying tarot archetypes offers a unique, human-centric interpretation of the system. The campaign's success underscores the appeal of combining established esoteric themes with contemporary performance art, creating a multi-faceted experience for both burlesque and tarot enthusiasts.

This project was primarily for enthusiasts of burlesque performance art, particularly those in the Southeast Michigan and Chicago areas where the live show and some personalized rewards were offered. It also appealed to collectors of unique, art-focused tarot interpretations, especially those interested in the intersection of performance, art, and divination. Individuals seeking a traditional, fully functional tarot reading deck might find this more of a collectible or commemorative item related to the performance art project.

The "Pick a Card" project was spearheaded by "Queens of Cups," a collective or organization focused on burlesque performance. The campaign highlights the involvement of various artists and performers, including Gala Delicious, Cruel Valentine, Lushes LaMoan, Roxi D'Lite, Red Rum, Florence of A'Labia (Rosalarian), Luna Legare, and Loretta Jean (who offered tarot readings). E. Woodbury Rand was a key illustrator for the project, creating designs such as the 'Strength' card and poster art. The campaign's success in 2014 indicates a collaborative effort to bring this unique burlesque-tarot fusion to life.