
Tarot Card Deck based on 1940's WPA Posters- Major and Minor (Canceled)
by Bobby Alexander
Theme: 1940s WPA posters reinterpreted as tarot cards
Medium: collage
A 78-card tarot deck that reinterprets classic tarot imagery through the lens of 1940s Works Progress Administration (WPA) posters. The deck blends Art Deco and Modern art styles, utilizing existing public domain artwork.
About This Deck
The WPA Tarot Card Deck is a 78-card set designed by Bobby Alexander, drawing inspiration from the distinctive aesthetic of 1940s Works Progress Administration (WPA) posters. This project aimed to merge the rich symbolism of tarot with the unique visual language of American public art from that era. The deck's concept centers on repurposing historical artwork, specifically WPA posters, to create a fresh interpretation of the Major and Minor Arcana.
The WPA posters themselves are known for their diverse styles, ranging from the geometric elegance of Art Deco to the more streamlined forms of Modern art. This deck intended to capture that variety, integrating these historical art pieces into a cohesive tarot system. The goal was to offer a deck that is both a functional divination tool and a tribute to a significant period in American art history, appealing to those who appreciate vintage aesthetics and historical design.
While the campaign for this deck was canceled, the concept highlights an innovative approach to tarot creation by utilizing existing, culturally significant artwork. The intention was to provide a full 78-card experience, complete with a booklet, suggesting a commitment to a complete and readable tarot system within its unique artistic framework.
Key Features
- 78-card tarot deck, including Major and Minor Arcana
- Artwork based on 1940s Works Progress Administration (WPA) posters
- Blends Art Deco and Modern art styles
- Intended to include a booklet with names of backers
Who It's For
This deck would appeal to tarot readers with an interest in American history, particularly the 1930s and 1940s, and those who appreciate vintage or Art Deco aesthetics. It is suited for collectors looking for unique, art-history-inspired decks, as well as readers who enjoy a non-traditional visual approach to the Rider-Waite-Smith system. The use of public domain WPA posters offers a distinctive visual experience for those seeking a deck with a strong thematic identity.
The Story Behind This Deck
Bobby Alexander, originally from Galveston Island, Texas, is an entrepreneur with a background in various online ventures, including 4cfingerboards.com. Married for 21 years with five children, Alexander's creative pursuits extend to hobbies that include this tarot deck project. The WPA Tarot Card Deck represents an intersection of his interests, combining a passion for unique art with the structure of tarot, though the campaign was ultimately canceled.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many cards are in the WPA Tarot Card Deck?
What is the artistic style of the WPA Tarot Card Deck?
Does the WPA Tarot Card Deck include a guidebook?
Is this deck suitable for beginners?
Campaign Stats
Raised
$1.7K
Backers
53
Funded
66%
Launched
Apr 2019
Platform: Kickstarter
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