The Transparent Tarot
The Transparent Tarot
'The Transparent Tarot' is completely unique in that it is printed on transparent plastic, its cards are designed to be read in overlapping layers. This has the potential for an enormous amount of clarity in any reading. That which has been removed through simplification, paves the way to expression through alternative interpretation. This deck could provide a distinct advantage for an absolute beginner to the Tarot. There is the option to assimilate the meanings of the cards offered in the accompanying book and read in the traditional way, or intuitively interpret each situation through story telling and description of the images and in the layers. For the advanced practitioner, especially those at a transitory stage in their spiritual development, incorporating the Transparent Tarot method into a reading could prove to be a very useful addition to their existing divinatory skills.
Through subtle but effective use of colour, outlines and transparency, this stylized deck focuses primarily on fine tuning extra sensory perception, rather than a saturation of the senses with heavy occult symbolism. Less is more in this case. There are no deviations from the traditional names for the Major and Minor Arcana, and Emily's interpretations resonate beautifully with allegory and common sense. The accompanying literature is sensibly structured into ascending Major Arcana interpretations, followed by comprehensive Minor Arcana and respective court cards information at the end. Unlike many of the older decks issued with a tiny pamphlet for interpretation, the information in this book far exceeds expectation in comparison.
The Transparent Tarot's Minor Arcana are simplified versions of the traditional concepts from the Rider Waite deck and the associated interpretations in the book offer insightful and practical hints regarding the necessity of inner work to uncover the wisdom behind the subtle imagery. The Major Arcana images, though dramatically modified and reinterpreted by the Artist, convey easily recognizable symbols through which a total beginner could grasp the significance of each card with ease. The deck as a whole displays its creator's innate understanding of each stage in the journey of the soul, which translates well into the exploratory Transparent Tarot method of reading.
The spreads presented in the book very much mirror the originality of the deck's concept. Through using the suggested spreads, and creating your own, you open up more possibilities to your interpretation.
Whatever the earthly origins of the tarot may be, they are a gift to us which can aid us in our search for self knowledge, understanding, and universal truth. -Emily Carding
Review ©Jade Ashcroft 2008
You can order your copy of the deck and book at the link below:
