October is coming to an end, and that means that the amount of workload that I have is finally being

October is coming to an end, and that means that the amount of workload that I have is finally being lightened and I can be more in touch with my actual teaching than with insane amounts of paperwork. This also means I finally have time to devote myself to showing you the decks that have been with me for a while now! The one I’m most ready to type about is the New Chapter Tarot by Kathryn Briggs, published by the wonderful team at Liminal 11. This 80 card tarot deck is “a story, a journey, a self portrait of change”. It tells the story of a woman who had to leave her old life behind and return to her home country following the end of her marriage. “Each card is a meditation in paint; […] this deck represents a new life, a circle of Hope and Friendship and Love”. The first thing that attracted me to this deck was the continuous presence of (sacred) geometry and the wide watercolour palette - resulting in a semblance of a kaleidoscope. It mixes mythology with traditional and personal symbolism (including but not limited to plant lore, astrology and alchemy). The artwork feels very personal, handcrafted, and I can recognize familiar faces in some cards (Carrie Fisher in the Empress!). There are two bonus cards, Gratitude and Invocation.The art style is very unique and personal. It feels like having a deep conversation with a card that does not immediately give itself away - and it’s up to you if you want to scratch their surface or dig deep within. I understand why it is recommended to more seasoned readers but I think labelling this as an advanced deck would deprive beginners of an enigmatic but refreshing tarot experience. The courts can be a bit confusing though, as the inclusion of princesses instead of pages brings forward some Thoth-y energy, though we have no princes in sight. Princesses and Knights are both male and female presenting. Finally I would like to mention that the cards are surrounded by their own painted frame, which makes them unique on every illustration. The full-colour mini hardcover booklet, at almost 70 pages, leaves me wanting more. I would have loved to read why certain artistic and symbolic choices were made. At a reading level though it is more than complete, with a foreword by the one and only Rachel Pollack, an introduction, card meanings (including reversals), a how-to, and custom spreads. Though the (matt) cards are shorter than your average Liminal 11 deck, the box is pretty much the same so it can comfyly fit in your collection. It features a magnetic flip bottom as well as shiny foiled accents, so it looks beautiful even on the shelf.The New Chapter Tarot is definitely a break from tradition that, though retaining some important symbolic aspects, invites us to explore beyond. The cards are deeply conversational but in a quiet, introspective manner, so I have found it reads better for myself than when reading for others. Kathryn Briggs’ artwork is fascinating, brilliant for all seasons and obviously attractive. Even if you are used to traditional images, give this Liminal 11 release a chance to stun you into amazement! And while you’re at it, check out other tarot releases that’ll be soon explored here! -- source link

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