The Starman Tarot is a distinctive 78-card deck rooted in the Rider-Waite system of divination, uniquely themed around the mythology and artistic legacy of the musician David Bowie. Created by artist Davide De Angelis, who collaborated with Bowie on various art projects including album covers, the deck serves as a tool for divination, self-reflection, and creative exploration. The deck integrates the traditional structure of tarot—comprising the Major and Minor Arcana—with imagery inspired by Bowie's albums, lyrics, and iconic personas, particularly the cosmic archetype of Ziggy Stardust. It is designed to function not merely as a means of prediction, but as a "creative catalyst" and a "sacred preyer" to the spirit of creativity, inviting users to engage with the miraculous and mysterious aspects of life.
The deck is packaged with a comprehensive guidebook of nearly 200 pages. This book details the meaning of each card and provides background on De Angelis’ relationship with Bowie, as well as an overview of tarot history. The physical cards are noted for excellent card stock, sturdy construction, and a smooth finish that facilitates easy shuffling without excessive slipperiness. The backs of the cards feature a design described as "alien calligraphy."
While the Starman Tarot incorporates unique artistic elements, it maintains the fundamental symbolism of traditional tarot systems. It blends the Rider-Waite-Smith system with influences from the Thoth Tarot and Golden Dawn symbolism. The deck is divided into the Major Arcana, representing universal themes and archetypes, and the Minor Arcana, which addresses everyday experiences and challenges. The artwork utilizes vibrant colors and intricate details to evoke wonder and draw the viewer into a deeper exploration of the subconscious.
Using the Starman Tarot for divination involves a process of setting intentions, shuffling, and drawing cards to gain insights into various aspects of life, such as relationships, career, and personal growth. The deck is suitable for both beginners and seasoned readers. Beginners are encouraged to utilize the included guidebook and engage in regular practice to enhance their understanding of the tarot system. The deck encourages a personal and intuitive approach, where the reader taps into their own subconscious to interpret the messages. The imagery, such as figures standing on the edge of a cliff, is intended to deepen the meaning of the cards, potentially indicating the need to take risks or embrace spontaneity.
The Starman Tarot is presented as more than a divination tool; it is described as an invitation to become the "cause and creator" of one's experience. It encourages users to invent new contexts for living and to engage in "visual alchemy." The deck aims to empower individuals to express themselves fully and to see the world through new eyes, transforming circumstances into acts of creativity. It resonates with those seeking a modern, artistic interpretation of the traditional tarot and those inspired by David Bowie's forward-thinking and transformative energy.
The Structure and Symbolism of the Starman Tarot
The Starman Tarot adheres to the traditional structure of the 78-card tarot system, ensuring that users familiar with standard divination practices can navigate the deck effectively. The deck is divided into two primary sections: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana.
Major Arcana
The Major Arcana consists of 22 cards that depict powerful archetypes and universal themes. In the context of the Starman Tarot, these cards are infused with the mythology surrounding David Bowie. They represent significant life lessons, spiritual transitions, and the overarching narrative of the user's journey. The imagery is designed to connect the user with the "cosmic archetype of the Starman avatar," encouraging a broad perspective on life's challenges and triumphs.
Minor Arcana
The Minor Arcana consists of 56 cards divided into four suits (typically Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles). These cards represent everyday experiences, specific situations, and practical challenges. The Starman Tarot illustrates these cards with artwork inspired by Bowie's lyrics and visual aesthetic, providing a fresh lens through which to view daily life. The Minor Arcana offers guidance on immediate actions and decisions.
Artistic Collaboration and Influence
The visual language of the Starman Tarot is the result of the collaboration between Davide De Angelis and the legacy of David Bowie. The artwork is described as visually distinct, featuring vibrant colors and striking imagery. It draws heavily from Bowie's albums and iconic looks, creating a bridge between the ancient wisdom of tarot and modern artistic expression. This blend allows for a unique aesthetic experience that differs from traditional decks while maintaining structural integrity.
Using the Starman Tarot for Divination
The Starman Tarot is designed to be a versatile tool for divination, suitable for gaining insights into relationships, career, spirituality, and personal growth. The process of reading the cards is intuitive and deeply personal.
The Divination Process
The source material outlines a step-by-step approach to using the cards effectively:
- Setting the Intention: Before shuffling or drawing cards, it is essential to establish a clear intention. This focus helps align the user's energy with the cards and clarifies the specific question or area of life to be explored.
- Shuffling and Drawing: The cards are shuffled by the reader or the querent (the person seeking guidance). This physical interaction with the deck is part of the energetic connection.
- Spreads and Layouts: The chosen cards are laid out in specific patterns or spreads. The position of each card within the spread contributes to its meaning.
- Interpretation: The reader interprets the cards based on their position, inherent symbolism, and intuitive connection to the imagery. The Starman Tarot encourages readers to look beyond standard definitions and incorporate the unique artistic narrative of the deck.
Suitability for Beginners
The deck is accessible to beginners, though it is recommended that they have a basic understanding of tarot systems. The included 200-page guidebook is a valuable resource, providing detailed descriptions of each card and insight into their interpretation within the Starman Tarot context. Beginners are encouraged to study the guidebook and practice regularly to build confidence and enhance their interpretive skills.
Unique Elements of Interpretation
The Starman Tarot differs from traditional decks through its incorporation of David Bowie's creative legacy. This adds a layer of "cosmic mythology" to the reading. For example, the imagery of a figure standing on the edge of a cliff may appear in the deck, serving as a visual cue to interpret themes of risk-taking, spontaneity, or a leap of faith. The deck invites users to explore the "impossible" and to use their vivid imagination to shape their reality.
The Starman Tarot as a Tool for Personal Growth
Beyond prediction, the Starman Tarot is presented as a mechanism for profound personal transformation and creative empowerment. It is described as a "sacred preyer to the spirit of creativity" and a "wise, transformative guide."
Creative Catalyst and Alchemy
The deck functions as a creative catalyst, encouraging users to engage in "visual alchemy." It invites individuals to turn their current circumstances into "unique and beautiful acts of creativity." By interacting with the cards, users are encouraged to become collaborators in a quest to "re-enchant the world" with magic and beauty. This process is framed as a "beautiful rebellion" against mundane existence, empowering users to actualize their fullest human potential.
Creating Meaning and New Perspectives
A core aspect of the Starman Tarot is the "Sacred Art of Creating Meaning." Through interaction with the deck, users are compelled to fully express who they are and what they stand for. The deck aims to help users see the world through "new eyes," opening up new ways of being and creating. It emphasizes that magic is not a downgraded version as portrayed in media, but something brought into existence through the user's interactions, words, and actions.
Reconnection with the Miraculous
The Starman Tarot invites users to explore the realm of the "impossible" and to imagine a world that sings with magic and wonder. It serves as a pathway to reconnect with the miraculous and mysterious wonders of nature and the self. This reconnection is described as a dynamic expression of living, encouraging a direct physical, mental, and spiritual experience of life.
The Guidebook and Physical Attributes
The physical presentation of the Starman Tarot is designed to enhance the user experience.
The Guidebook
The nearly 200-page guidebook is an integral component of the deck. It is described as a "great read" that offers more than just card definitions. * Card Descriptions: It provides detailed explanations for each of the 78 cards, tailored to the Starman Tarot's specific imagery and Bowie-inspired themes. * Historical Context: The introductory chapters discuss Davide De Angelis’ relationship with David Bowie, providing context for the artistic collaboration. * Tarot History: It also covers the history of tarot itself, grounding the deck in its traditional roots.
Physical Construction
The physical quality of the cards supports frequent use. * Card Stock: The cards are noted for "excellent" and "very sturdy" card stock. * Finish: The finish is "very smooth," making the cards easy to shuffle. However, the texture is such that the cards are not overly slippery, maintaining control during handling. * Dimensions: The cards fit well in the hands, suggesting a standard, comfortable size. * Card Backs: The back design is simple and features "alien calligraphy," as described by the artist. This design is reversible, allowing the deck to be used for readings that require unknown future outcomes.
Conclusion
The Starman Tarot is a specialized divination tool that merges the traditional Rider-Waite tarot system with the artistic and mythological legacy of David Bowie. Created by Davide De Angelis, the deck offers a visually distinct and creatively charged approach to tarot reading. It serves as a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern artistic expression, providing a unique resource for both beginners and experienced practitioners.
The deck is comprised of 78 cards, divided into the Major and Minor Arcana, and is supported by a comprehensive guidebook that details card meanings and provides historical context. Physically, the deck is constructed with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and ease of use.
While the Starman Tarot can be used for traditional divination to gain insights into relationships, career, and personal matters, its primary emphasis appears to be on personal growth and creative empowerment. It is presented as a "creative catalyst" and a tool for "visual alchemy," encouraging users to become active creators of their reality. By engaging with the deck, individuals are invited to explore new perspectives, embrace spontaneity, and reconnect with the miraculous aspects of existence. The Starman Tarot ultimately stands as a testament to the power of art and creativity in the pursuit of spiritual and personal insight.