Wild Messengers Alchemical Tarot Card Deck and Guidebook

The Wild Messengers Alchemical Tarot is an 80-card deck designed to connect readers with the wisdom of the animal kingdom and the principles of alchemy. Created by Lola Pickett, Tanya Casteel, and Tigre Pickett, this deck reinterprets the traditional 78-card tarot system by intuitively pairing each card with an animal messenger. The Major Arcana are referred to as 'Etheric Spirit' cards, embodying archetypal voices, while the Minor Arcana suits are renamed to align with alchemical elements: Swords become Air, Wands become Fire, Cups become Water, and Pentacles become Earth.

Beyond the standard 78 cards, the deck includes two additional 'wild cards' intended to add whimsy and deeper insight to readings. The court cards are also re-named to be non-binary/gender-fluid, reflecting a modern, inclusive approach to tarot interpretation. The accompanying hardcover guidebook offers channeled guidance, prompts for self-reflection, and invocations for each card, along with teachings on alchemy as a tool for self-transformation. It aims to be robust enough for beginners while offering depth for experienced readers.

The physical production emphasizes quality, featuring 350gsm fine art paper with an anti-scratch matte finish. A distinctive feature is the embossed snakeskin texture on the reversible card backs, designed to conceal reversals. The deck and its two-piece hard box also include holographic foil and deboss elements, unlocked as stretch goals during its successful 2018 Kickstarter campaign. This deck is positioned as a tool for awakening inner wisdom and fostering a connection with the wild within.

This deck is ideal for tarot enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate animal-themed decks with a spiritual or alchemical twist. It will appeal to readers seeking a modern, inclusive approach to tarot, particularly those interested in non-binary language for court cards and elemental suit reinterpretations. Its intuitive, visually driven artwork makes it suitable for both beginners looking for an approachable entry into tarot and experienced readers desiring a fresh, nature-inspired perspective.

The Wild Messengers Alchemical Tarot was born from the collaborative intuitive gifts of Lola Pickett and Tanya Casteel, with the graphical talents of Tigre Pickett. The project is described as steeped in love, integrity, and playfulness, reflecting a deep intention behind its creation. Tanya Casteel is highlighted as the artist, bringing her vision to life through the cosmic watercolor illustrations. The team aimed to produce a high-quality deck that would help users channel the 'wild messages' of the animal kingdom and awaken their inner wisdom, combining traditional tarot with an animalistic and alchemical twist.