The Tarot of Sorts

The Tarot of Sorts is a unique tarot deck created by artist and poet Jameson Alea, distinguished by its vintage letterpress aesthetic. Hand-printed at Book Arts, a letterpress studio in Buffalo, NY, the deck embodies a tactile, artisanal quality. The campaign successfully raised $13,665 from 238 backers, indicating strong community interest in its distinctive approach.

The deck's imagery is a blend of various styles, reflecting Alea's diverse interests in history, magic, and alchemy. While some cards feature traditional figures and symbols, others incorporate anatomical drawings, mechanical elements, or abstract patterns, often accompanied by short interpretive texts. This eclectic mix creates a reading experience that is both familiar in its tarot structure and fresh in its visual presentation, inviting intuitive interpretation alongside traditional meanings.

Initially offered in a limited, completely hand-printed 23-card version (with potential for up to 28 cards via stretch goals), the primary offering was a mass-printed version of the full deck. This dual approach allowed for both a highly collectible, artisanal edition and a more accessible version for a wider audience. The deck's design, with its varied color palette and distinct printing style, makes it a standout for collectors and readers seeking a deck with a strong artistic identity.

This deck is ideal for tarot enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate unique, art-driven decks with a vintage aesthetic. Readers interested in letterpress printing, alchemy, and history will find its themes particularly appealing. It suits those who enjoy a more intuitive reading style, as the varied imagery and occasional textual elements invite personal reflection. It may also appeal to experienced readers looking for a deck that offers a fresh perspective on traditional tarot archetypes.

Jameson Alea (they/he) is an artist and poet with a background as a software engineer, whose creative work is deeply informed by interests in history, magic, and alchemy. They are passionate about art and work across various mediums, including letterpress, photography, and collage. As a tarot reader and follower of Athena, Alea brings a personal connection to the divination system, infusing the deck with their unique perspective and diverse artistic skills. The creation of The Tarot of Sorts reflects their commitment to combining traditional craft with esoteric themes.