The Dead Waite Tarot (Canceled)

The Dead Waite Tarot, conceived by artist James Battersby, merges the traditional 78-card Rider-Waite-Smith system with the visceral aesthetic of a zombie apocalypse. Launched on Kickstarter in 2018, the project aimed to transform every classic tarot card into a scene populated by the living dead, complete with torn costumes, exposed bones, and rotting flesh. The deck was designed to appeal to fans of zombie horror, offering a unique and gruesome take on tarot.

Beyond the standard 78 cards, the campaign also introduced two exclusive special cards: a 'survivor' card representing the querent and an 'infected' card indicating toxic influences. The deck was planned to be printed in Italy on 330gsm card stock, a quality choice often associated with durability and a good feel in hand. A 'Little White Book' (LWB) was also intended to be included, providing basic interpretations for the zombified imagery.

A distinctive feature offered was the 'Apocalyptic Survivor' edition, which presented cards with overlayed effects like dried blood, burn marks, and dirt, designed to look as if they had been salvaged from a post-apocalyptic world. This edition aimed to enhance the immersive horror theme, with the understanding that these effects were purely artistic and not actual damage. The project, though canceled, highlighted a creative approach to themed tarot, blending horror with traditional symbolism.

This deck is ideal for zombie horror enthusiasts, particularly fans of series like 'The Walking Dead' or classic Romero films, who also have an interest in tarot. It caters to collectors seeking unique, niche, or horror-themed decks that stand out from traditional offerings. Experienced RWS readers looking for a visually distinct, yet symbolically familiar, deck for themed readings (like Halloween) would also find it appealing. It is not intended for those sensitive to gore or who prefer more traditional, gentle, or uplifting tarot aesthetics.

James Battersby, the artist behind The Dead Waite Tarot, aimed to combine his passion for zombie horror with the art of tarot. The project was driven by a desire to create a unique, hand-drawn zombie-themed RWS deck, noting the scarcity of such offerings in the market. His previous experience with Ludocards for printing suggests a commitment to quality production. The campaign emphasized the significant time investment required for hand-drawn art, distinguishing it from clip art-based decks and highlighting the originality of his 'daring themes and designs.'