Tarot purists clutch their pearls when hearing the words "stylized", "hip" or "whimsy" connected to new decks--let alone a phrase like "retro charm". But I think I've stumbled on an innovative Tarot that even the most dour of traditionalists will appreciate: The MidCenturian Tarot Deck.
What I find fascinating about this deck by Madam Clara (real name, unknown) is that she's managed to update Rider-Waite-Smith symbolism via the abstract graphic illustration style of the 1950s-1960s (hence, the name "MidCenturian")--but still maintains the color scheme and iconography.
Below is a side-by-side comparison of each Tarot's Major Arcana cards:
And the Cups suit:
And lastly, a side-by-side comparison of the Swords suit:
Personally, I'm enamored with The MidCenturian Tarot, now crowdfunding on Kickstarter (only 17 days to go at this writing). In fact, I've pledged at the Double Decker level, because I also want the Madam Clara Sees All Tarot deck!
If you like what you've seen, too, support this bold, colorful Tarot deck on Kickstarter at this link.
-- Janet