The Tarot of Trees, created by Dana Driscoll, represents a unique fusion of artistic expression and divinatory practice. This tarot deck distinguishes itself through a specific thematic focus on trees, integrating nature-inspired imagery with the traditional structure of tarot. According to the provided source materials, the deck consists of 78 cards, adhering to the standard composition used in traditional tarot systems. The accompanying book, titled The Tarot of Trees: Artwork and Meanings, serves as the primary reference guide for the deck. It provides essential details regarding the visual elements of the cards and the interpretations associated with them. The publication was released in 2009 and is available in trade paperback format, spanning approximately 102 to 103 pages.
The source data emphasizes that the book offers more than just a guide to card meanings; it provides a comprehensive look into the artistic and design process behind the deck. This includes specific information regarding the symbolism of trees, a central element of the deck's theme. Additionally, the book contains biographical information about the artist, Dana Driscoll. The materials clarify that the book is distinct from the physical deck; listings specify that the book is sold separately from the tarot cards. This separation suggests that the book is designed to function as a standalone resource for study or as a companion volume for those who already possess the deck. The content is intended for an audience interested in divination and the "Body, Mind & Spirit" genre, offering a whimsical approach to the serious practice of tarot reading.
Understanding the Tarot of Trees Deck
The Tarot of Trees is a specialized divination tool that utilizes the visual language of trees to convey the meanings of the tarot. The source material describes the deck as "whimsical," indicating a stylistic approach that is likely less rigid than historical tarot decks while maintaining the structural integrity of the 78-card system. The book The Tarot of Trees: Artwork and Meanings is the definitive guide for understanding the specific imagery and symbolism employed by the artist.
Deck Composition and Structure
The deck contains the standard 78 cards found in most Western tarot traditions. This structure includes the Major Arcana, which represents significant life themes and archetypes, and the Minor Arcana, which addresses day-to-day situations and influences. While the source data does not detail the specific breakdown of the Minor Arcana suits (such as Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles), the presence of the full 78-card count ensures that the deck can be used for comprehensive readings similar to other traditional decks.
Artistic and Design Process
A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the artistic and design process. This section is intended to provide insight into how the imagery of the Tarot of Trees was developed. By exploring the design choices, users can gain a deeper understanding of the visual cues that trigger the card meanings. The inclusion of this material suggests that the deck is designed not only for divination but also as a piece of art to be appreciated and studied.
Tree Symbolism
Given the deck's title and synopsis, tree symbolism is a core component of the interpretations. The source material explicitly states that the book contains information about tree symbolism. In the context of tarot, this implies that specific tree species or arboreal characteristics are mapped to traditional tarot meanings. For example, the strength or flexibility of a tree might correspond to the attributes of a specific card. The book provides the necessary context to interpret these natural symbols within the framework of tarot spreads.
Information on the Artist
The book also includes information about the artist, Dana Driscoll. This biographical context allows users to connect with the creative vision behind the deck. Understanding the artist's intent and background can enrich the reading experience, providing a narrative layer to the visual symbolism of the cards.
Practical Application of the Tarot of Trees
While the source material focuses primarily on the physical description and content of the book and deck, the application of the Tarot of Trees follows standard tarot practices. The book provides the artwork and meanings for each of the 78 cards, which is the fundamental requirement for performing readings.
The Role of the Guidebook
For any tarot deck, the guidebook is an essential tool, particularly for decks with unique themes like the Tarot of Trees. The book ensures that the user understands the specific connection between the tree imagery and the traditional tarot meanings. Without the book, interpreting the "whimsical" and nature-focused artwork would rely heavily on the user's personal intuition and general knowledge of tree symbolism, which may not align with the artist's specific intent.
Integration with Holistic Practices
As a tool falling under the genre of "Body, Mind & Spirit," the Tarot of Trees is suited for use in various holistic and spiritual contexts. It can be used for introspection, decision-making, and exploring personal growth strategies. The nature theme of the deck aligns well with practices that emphasize grounding, connection to the earth, and natural cycles.
Summary of Available Information
The provided source data offers specific details regarding the publication and content of the Tarot of Trees. The following table summarizes the key identifiers and attributes of the book based on the listings:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Tarot of Trees: Artwork and Meanings |
| Author | Dana Driscoll |
| Publication Year | 2009 |
| Format | Trade Paperback |
| Page Count | 102 to 103 pages |
| Publisher | CreateSpace |
| ISBN-10 | 144215246X |
| ISBN-13 | 978-1442152465 |
| Topic | Divination / Tarot |
| Genre | Body, Mind & Spirit |
| Deck Size | 78 cards |
The source material indicates that the book is intended for trade audiences and is often sold as a separate item from the physical deck. Listings for the book describe its condition as "Brand New" or "Acceptable" (used), depending on the seller. The book is printed on demand in some instances.
Conclusion
The Tarot of Trees offers a distinct approach to tarot divination by centering on the imagery and symbolism of trees. The accompanying book, The Tarot of Trees: Artwork and Meanings, is a comprehensive resource that details the artwork, card meanings, design process, and tree symbolism inherent in the deck. Created by Dana Driscoll and published in 2009, this 78-card deck serves the divination needs of those within the "Body, Mind & Spirit" community. The source material confirms that the book is the primary source for understanding the specific interpretations of the whimsical, nature-themed artwork, providing a bridge between traditional tarot structures and the artistic vision of the creator.