Art

So, to Card 1, The Magician.  It’s no coincidence that this has a strong resemblance to my picture of Ceridwen from a few weeks ago; that was what …

So, to Card 1, The Magician.  It’s no coincidence that this has a strong resemblance to my picture of Ceridwen from a few weeks ago; that was what prompted the remarks that started me on this project and so I have used the same figure for this card.  Again I’ve tweaked the symbols to make for a better composition.   

The right hand aloft and the left pointing down symbolize the connection between heaven and earth (interestingly in the same way dervishes do in their whirling dances), and the ability of high thought while staying grounded. 

The chalice, sword, pentacle and wand are the four suits of the tarot and the four elements, indicating the necessary resources for life and achievement.

The serpent is change, power and temptation. It’s usually shown as a belt around the Magician’s “centre”, symbolising judgment in the exercise of power.  I’ve shifted this to the right arm which has its own symbolism, associated with doing right in many cultures throughout history.

The Magician’s card generally has the figure surrounded by flowers referencing the biblical phrase “bloom where you are planted”. I’ve have used a rose motif on the fabric to surround the figure instead and convey the same sentiment of life as a garden; tend to it so you can grow.  

Finally, this card traditionally has an infinity symbol referring to consciousness and the infinite influence of mentality.  I have dispensed with this and used the backdrop of infinite space with no horizon to suggest the same meaning.

As ususal, DS3 as is.