The Wild Unknown Tarot is a modern deck that has redefined the Tarot movement for the twenty-first century. Created by artist and author Kim Krans, this deck serves as a resonating guide for people all over the world, inspiring creative awakenings and deep introspection. It is widely regarded not merely as a set of cards, but as a spiritual tool for self-discovery. By tapping into intuition, the deck allows users to delve deeper into the subconscious, narrow the gap between the self and the outer world, and reveal things that are otherwise hidden. The imagery invites users to think outside of the box, look for deeper meaning, and discover more about life, the world, and one's place within it. The deck is hand-drawn in a minimalist style, featuring striking images that offer profound contemplation. It explores the mysteries of the natural world and the animal kingdom, making it a reliable friend for those who feel a connection with the natural world and wish to touch the mysteries of the universe.
Origins and Concept of the Deck
The Wild Unknown Tarot was self-published by Kim Krans in 2012, featuring hand-drawn imagery. Its popularity grew globally, leading to a release with Harper Collins in 2016, where it landed on the New York Times Bestseller's list. It is now available in over ten languages. Kim Krans is described as a pioneer of the new Tarot movement, redefining it for contemporary seekers. The deck is based on the Marseille tradition, similar to the Thoth Tarot, and consists of 78 cards. The accompanying 200-page guidebook is a phenomenally revered work of art—handwritten and fully illustrated—which guides readers through shuffling, cutting, and interpreting the cards.
The concept of the deck is rooted in the idea that there are no rights or wrongs in Tarot reading; the cards are mirrors for reflection. However, the deck is noted as being "not for the faint-hearted." While some cards feature sweet and innocent imagery, others depict an extremely dark nature. The serious cards do not beat around the bush like some other decks do. Those looking for all sunshine, rainbows, and twin flames might find this deck unsuitable. Instead, it serves as a vital part of a Tarot journey, encouraging an open mind to gain the most from the experience. Journaling is recommended alongside the use of the deck to document perceptions, thoughts, and feelings, acting as another gateway to the subconscious.
The Major Arcana
The Major Arcana in The Wild Unknown Tarot consists of 21 numbered cards and one unnumbered card, the Fool, consistent with traditional Tarot decks. These cards form the basis of the deck and represent spiritual enlightenment. They describe the different states encountered in the search for greater meaning and understanding in life, serving as lessons of profound meaning. The Major Arcana cards in this deck are:
- The Fool
- The Magician
- The High Priestess
- The Empress
- The Emperor
- The Hierophant
- The Lovers
- The Chariot
- Justice
- The Hermit
- Wheel of Fortune
- Strength
- The Hanged Man
- Death
- Temperance
- The Devil
- The Tower
- The Star
- The Moon
- The Sun
- Judgement
- The World
Specific Major Arcana Symbolism
The imagery in the Major Arcana often utilizes the animal kingdom to convey complex meanings. For instance, The Lovers card depicts Canadian geese, which form a pair for life and travel together across the endless sky. According to the creator, the meaning of this card is unity, desire, joy, and building relationships.
The Minor Arcana
The Minor Arcana of The Wild Unknown Tarot follows the classic elemental associations, though the visual representation is unique. It is divided into four suits: Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles.
The Suit of Wands
The Wands are associated with the element of Fire. They represent inspiration and creativity. In this deck, the Court Arcana of the Wands is represented by wise, active, and creative snakes. These snakes protect their family and territory but can become the most dangerous enemies. The suit deals with energies related to action and drive.
The Suit of Cups
The Cups are associated with the element of Water and the emotional sphere. The Court Arcana of the Cups is represented by sophisticated, sensual, beautiful swans. These cards navigate the depths of feelings and relationships.
The Suit of Swords
The Suit of Swords deals with energies dominating the mind. It ranges from focus and mental clarity through to distress and inner turmoil. This suit represents action, communication, logic, and intellect, while often dealing with heavy energies of conflict, destructive habits, and power. It is ruled by the element of Air. In this deck, the Court Arcana of the Swords is represented by shrewd, intelligent, and not overly friendly owls. The specific cards in the Suit of Swords include:
- Ace of Swords
- Two of Swords
- Three of Swords
- Four of Swords
- Five of Swords
- Six of Swords
- Seven of Swords
- Eight of Swords
- Nine of Swords
- Ten of Swords
- Daughter of Swords
- Son of Swords
- Mother of Swords
- Father of Swords
The Suit of Pentacles
The Pentacles are associated with the element of Earth. They relate to money, career, and what we possess. The Court Arcana of the Pentacles is represented by the closest family to earth: deer. These cards ground the reading in material reality and stability.
The Court Arcana: A Family Structure
A distinctive feature of The Wild Unknown Tarot is its renaming of the traditional Court cards. Instead of the traditional Page, Knight, Queen, and King found in the Waite system, Kim Krans uses names that she feels are better suited for denoting family members. This structure applies to all four suits, creating a cohesive "family" dynamic within the deck.
- Daughter: Represents youth, new beginnings, or a specific perspective on the suit's energy.
- Son: Represents action, movement, or a dynamic aspect of the suit.
- Mother: Represents nurturing, abundance, and the core essence of the suit.
- Father: Represents structure, authority, and mastery of the suit's energy.
This familial approach helps users relate the cards to interpersonal dynamics and internal roles.
Interpretive Approach and Usage
The Wild Unknown Tarot is designed to be a guide for personal interpretation. The creator emphasizes that the deck is a mirror. Users are encouraged to look at the images and trust their immediate intuitive responses. The minimalist style allows for a direct connection with the subconscious without the distraction of overly complex scenes.
Because the deck includes imagery that can be quite dark or intense, it is particularly useful for shadow work—exploring the hidden, often repressed aspects of the psyche. The deck challenges users to confront difficult truths and navigate complex emotional landscapes. The inclusion of animals as the primary subjects for many cards adds a layer of instinctual and primal energy to the readings, connecting human experiences to the broader natural world.
The deck's physical quality is also noted; the cards are made from quality thick cardboard, which may take some time for readers to get used to when shuffling. The unique shuffling technique required for this deck is detailed in the guidebook.
Conclusion
The Wild Unknown Tarot stands as a significant work in the modern Tarot landscape. It combines the structural integrity of the Marseille tradition with the intuitive, artistic vision of Kim Krans. It offers a path for self-discovery through the exploration of the subconscious, utilizing the symbolism of the natural world and the animal kingdom. With its renaming of Court cards to reflect a family structure and its stark, honest imagery, it provides a unique tool for those willing to engage with both the light and dark aspects of their journey. It remains a guide for creative awakening and spiritual exploration for users worldwide.