The Tuatha de Danaan Tarot

The Tuatha de Danaan Tarot is a 78-card deck rooted in Celtic mythology, specifically drawing inspiration from the Tuatha de Danaan, a race of divine beings in Irish lore. Artist Arlene Whiteswan began painting the deck in 1996, following what she describes as visitations from these faery beings, indicating a deeply personal and spiritually guided creative process. The deck's theme also ties into the broader 'Arthurian Legacy,' suggesting a blend of ancient Celtic narratives with the chivalric and mystical elements of Arthurian legend.

The campaign for the Tuatha de Danaan Tarot offered the full 78-card deck with a standard finish, with options for a luxury linen finish and an accompanying softcover guidebook. The inclusion of a guidebook is a key feature, designed to help readers interpret the mythological imagery and connect with the deck's unique spiritual framework. Despite its long gestation period, the deck aimed to provide a comprehensive tarot experience, combining traditional card count with a rich, specific mythological theme.

While the campaign did not reach its funding goal, the project highlights the creator's dedication to bringing a long-held artistic vision to fruition. The emphasis on 'faery seer' and 'visitations' suggests a deck intended for intuitive and spiritually inclined readers, offering a gateway into the mystical realms of Celtic and Arthurian traditions.

This deck is ideal for readers deeply interested in Celtic mythology, Arthurian legends, and faery lore. It would appeal to those who appreciate decks with a strong narrative and spiritual foundation, particularly individuals who connect with ancient mystical traditions. Experienced tarot readers looking for a deck with a unique thematic focus and a personal, intuitive artistic vision would find this deck compelling. It may also attract collectors of niche, mythologically themed tarot decks.

Arlene Whiteswan, an artist, adventurer, and self-described 'Faery seer,' began painting The Tuatha de Danaan Tarot in 1996. Her inspiration stemmed from personal visitations from the Tuatha de Danaan, the divine beings of Irish mythology. After years of the deck remaining in storage, she launched a Kickstarter campaign in 2021, hoping to finally bring her long-held artistic and spiritual vision to a wider audience. This journey highlights a deep, personal connection to the deck's mythological themes and a persistent dedication to her artistic craft.