I use tarot and oracle cards as tools for reflection and contemplation. Rather than divining the future, they are a way for me to look more deeply at the "now."
"The goal isn't to arrive, but to meander, to saunter, to make your life a holy wandering." ~ Rami Shapiro

Wednesday, August 17, 2016

Get Your Study On

From the Legacy of the Divine Tarot, the Eight of Coins; from the Tea Leaf Reading Cards, Elephant:
          I recognize the studious face on this man as he tries to figure out how to turn an idea into a reality. But when you're a fledgling instead of the master of a craft, it is necessary to devote quite a bit of time to study, practice and attention to detail. Developing knowledge and a skill set is similar to nurturing a child as he or she grows (and requires just as much patience). I've decided to try and create another self-published deck, but this one will be sketched instead of photographed. I don't think I would have even tried to do this had I not taken part in JJ's 52 sketches challenge. The randomly picked themes to draw or paint were way off the beaten path of what I would normally do. Yet pushing myself beyond my normal boundaries helped me sand off some of my rough edges and gain confidence (and JJ was a great mentor). My ideas are usually better than what I have the talent to actually draw, but being able to do something creative with them feels good. The tea leaf Elephant made me think of the Hindu god Ganesha. This deva of intellect and patron of arts and sciences is most commonly known as a remover of obstacles. The Elephant reminds me that an obstacle isn't always what it appears to be; rather than just a cause of frustration, it can be an object of learning.

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12 comments:

  1. Carolyn TindorAugust 17, 2016 at 8:51 AM

    I like that eight of coins. Although they are quality pieces a craft master would always be pursing perfection. Good luck with your new deck. The elephant is offering you the strength and endurance to pursue a new form of your art.

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    1. thesycamoretreeAugust 17, 2016 at 9:34 AM

      I will need the strength and endurance, as this won't be a quick job. :)

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    2. Sharyn Mallow WoerzAugust 17, 2016 at 10:15 AM

      If hurry was the result you were looking for your decks would have nothing to say that hasn't already been said. If a blanket was the result I was looking for I'd go to Target and buy one. It is the process I love

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    3. thesycamoretreeAugust 17, 2016 at 10:29 AM

      The quilter speaks truth! :) You're right, I have to be invested in it as far as it being something I love or believe in.

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  2. EllenAugust 17, 2016 at 9:00 AM

    Wow what brave endeavor!Now you've put it out here it is already a bit more real I guess
    I love the elephant as a symbol of endurance, wisdom, patience and strength. All qualities you will need during this creative process.
    And let's not forget the Fun! Wishing you lots of Fun creating your new deck my dear!
    Hugs

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    1. thesycamoretreeAugust 17, 2016 at 9:35 AM

      Yes, fun needs to be a big ingredient. Otherwise my inner critic will never shut up!

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  3. CaroleAugust 17, 2016 at 3:31 PM

    Sharyn is bang on right with what she said! One of my teachers at TAFE use to say "art is about the creative process, not the end result." All I can add is, enjoy the journey, my friend. :)

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    1. thesycamoretreeAugust 17, 2016 at 7:00 PM

      Well I am enjoying doing simple sketches again, and even if nothing becomes of them, I will have had fun! :) I just have a need to create, whether it is writing, drawing or something else.

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    2. CaroleAugust 17, 2016 at 9:51 PM

      I always say, "when the muse grabs you by the hand and invites you to dance, you better get your boogie shoes on!" ;)

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    3. thesycamoretreeAugust 18, 2016 at 6:30 AM

      You would definitely know about those muses! :D

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  4. AnonymousAugust 17, 2016 at 11:51 PM

    Oh Bev, I am SO pleased that the sketch project gave you the confidence to tackle the challenge of drawing a deck. Your Lojong deck and photographic arrangement is so lovely, and you showed such creativity and imagination last year with weekly sketches.

    I'm really, really happy that you have these creative reverberations. You showed remarkable tenacity for finishing while I was AWOL travelling during the last two months, and this discipline will carry you forward.

    See, you formed the habit, and persevering after the bad year you had, it's time for your own spirit to blossom forth again and draw. I am right chuffed!!!

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    1. thesycamoretreeAugust 18, 2016 at 7:22 AM

      Well dear friend, you were the lighthouse as we went through our year of sketches! But you're right - it's time to enjoy life instead of suffer through it. The deck will be an oracle of sorts. Years ago I made (using online photos) a recovery deck for personal use. I would like to make one without religious jargon (so that it might be useful to agnostics or anyone), and without focusing it on any one group (making it useful to anyone who wants to change a behavior). If it turns out decent, I'll have PS print a small-sized deck. It will be based on simple sketches, nothing elaborate. As I said above in another reply, even if nothing becomes of it, it has already brought me loads of enjoyment! :)

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