Epiphany Halloween Issue No. 15

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“

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- HUMBERTO JIMENEZ

Contents 3

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T H O M P S O N

H E A D

L A N S E R

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A N Y A

D W I G H T

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H O W A R D

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P I L L O W

D I A N A O R M A N Z H I

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INTRODUCTION

BRACE YOURSELF FOR THIS SPOOKTACULAR ISSUE WITH ANAGLYPH PHOTOS

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race yourself for this wicked October issue, as we unveil art of the supernatural, the eerie, and the unexplained.

In this hair-raising edition, we bring you the ultimate Halloween movie marathon with our carefully curated list of the Top 10 Halloween movies, haunted art pieces, and everything you need to know about familiars. Get ready to be thrilled and captivated by the Halloween issue 15.

Adding to the excitement, in the Halloween issue No. 15, we proudly feature the works of talented Sacramento artists who have mastered the art of capturing the essence of the ethereal. See the imaginative and other worldly creations of Diana Ormanzi, Dwight Head, Sam Young, Anya Thompson, and Lanser Howard that will transport you to a world where the mysticism meets beauty. Prepare to be enchanted by their extraordinary talent in Epiphany Magazine’s 15th issue.

But here’s the twist: this issue of Spooktacular content is presented in 3D! Yes, you read that correctly. So, grab your 3D glasses and step into a realm where ghouls, ghosts, and goblins become bigger and bolder. Immerse yourself in the pages of this magazine as the supernatural creeps out at you in vivid detail. Get ready for a thrilling journey that will leave you feeling nostalgic.

So, dear reader, put on your 3D glasses and let the pages take you on a unforgettable trip through the realms of the unknown.

USE YOUR 3D GLASESS WHEN YOU SEE THIS ICON.

Monsters, Magic, and Mayhem

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n the depths of our imaginations lies a world shrouded in darkness, where monsters lurk, magic is real, and chaos reigns supreme. Horror, as a genre, possesses a unique power to transport us to extraordinary realms filled with spine-chilling terror and unexplainable phenomena.

In this article, we will delve into the depths of horror, exploring mythical monsters, supernatural elements, and the chaotic mayhem that grips our senses with an iron grip.

Unleashing the Monsters

Within the horror genre, monsters have always held a special place of fear and fascination.

From the towering presence of vampires to the slimy horrors of Lovecraftian creatures, these monstrosities embody our deepest fears and nightmares. Whether it’s the immortal Dracula, the shape-shifting werewolves, or the relentless zombies, these horrifying creatures haunt our dreams and fuel our darkest fantasies.

(Pictured right) Is an infamous Orc from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings.

Embracing the Supernatural: Magic, in all its mystique, adds another layer of intrigue to the horror genre.

The supernatural elements found in horror stories bring forth a sense of otherworldliness and inexplicable phenomena. From witches casting spells to summoning spirits, from cursed objects unleashing malevolent forces to haunted houses resonating with paranormal activity, these supernatural elements blur the lines between reality and the unknown, leaving us spellbound and on the edge of our seats.

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Descending into Chaos

Mayhem is the chaotic force that drives horror narratives, leaving us breathless and disoriented. The very fabric of reality is torn apart in these stories, as we witness the unraveling of order and the descent into madness. Whether it’s a possessed individual wreaking havoc, a demonic entity tormenting its helpless victims, or a psychological thriller that toys with our perception of reality, the chaos that ensues keeps us enthralled and captivated.

the haunting horrors

Monsters, magic, and mayhem form the backbone of horror, captivating our minds and hearts with their dark allure. They transport us to extraordinary worlds, where the shadows come alive and nightmares become reality. As the horror genre continues to evolve and embrace new technologies, the boundaries of our imagination are pushed further, and the terror becomes more palpable.

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SAM YOUNG Horror Surrealism Artist

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Canny Colors & Frighenting Furbies Welcome to the artistic realm of Sam Young

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am Young, also known as doll.slum by her Instagram followers, is a 30 year old Sacramento-based artist from the South Hagginwood area. Sam’s art combines horror and classic cartoon-inspired monsters and characters, resulting in a ghoulishly good look.

Apart from her art, Sam and her husband also host punk shows with a hint of art in their backyard that showcase their passion for the arts, adding a unique dimension to their creative pursuits.

Sam’s journey into art began at a young age, with an affinity for animated movies and cartoons. As a child she would pause the films and meticulously sketch the characters, which served as she initial outlet for expressing her creativity. It was also around this time Sam developed a fascination for horror films, which unbeknownst to her would become a driving force behind her distinctive style. She attributes her love for all things spooky to her cool uncle, who introduced her to classic horror movies during her childhood.

When asked about advice for new artists, Sam’s response reflects on her own dedication to her craft. She emphasizes the significance of practice and perseverance, encouraging aspiring artists to never give up. Sam believes that inspiration can be found in unexpected places, urging artists to say yes to new opportunities and step out of their comfort zones. Sam advocates for continuous creation and reassures artists that it’s perfectly acceptable to explore different projects as the creative flow guides them.

Reflecting on the year thus far, Sam aptly titles this chapter of her life as “Birth and Rebirth.” The coinciding events of her son’s birth and her own personal transformation culminate in a profound sense of rebirth and growth. Sam’s artistic journey intertwines with her personal experiences, shaping both her art and her perspective on life. This chapter represents a significant turning point for Sam, highlighting the pivotal moments that have shaped her artistic identity.

In closing, Sam states “I’m hoping to someday see my work (or even work like mine) in one of these swanky midtown galleries. I hope that by being featured here maybe it’ll open some hearts and minds to this kind of art style. I don’t paint the kind of stuff you’re taught in a college art class but expression is expression and all kinds should be celebrated!“

FINKY FURBY

As Sam recalls her vivid imagination is fueled by “other artists and SFX from 80s horror films. I love the gruesome textures and deformities and the kind of gooey wet nastiness. Going forward I hope to improve on those aesthetics the most with my work. With a lot of my pieces I like to add little abstract expressionism and noise by kind of free styling some spray paint patterns.” Says Sam. She enjoys taking familiar and somewhat eerie entities, such as Frankenstein or a Furby, and transforming them into something even more unsettling. This love for horror and the macabre has influenced her artistic direction and gives her art a spooky vibe that is right on time with Halloween.

Sam’s favorite Halloween tradition was watching Frankenstein and Wolfman every year. Sam finds solace in the nostalgic crackle of old film audio, considering it akin to the comforting sound of an old record. These movies have become an integral part of Sam’s Halloween night, regardless of other festive activities.

@doll.sum

Inspired by 90s vintage toy Furby and Ed Roth’s signature style. I wanted to try to recreate a furby’s face with more overly expressive features. If you look at a real furby, they look dead inside. And Ed Roth’s characters look full of madness and emotion so it was a fun challenge for me to try to use both elements. 2022.

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The Origins of

Halloween

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alloween is a popular holiday celebrated globally on the night of October 31st. It is a time when people dress up in costumes, attend parties, carve pumpkins, and go trick-or-treating. However, the origins of Halloween are steeped in history, and its cultural significance has evolved over time.

The Celtic Tradition of Shamain The origins of Halloween can be traced back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain.

Samhain was celebrated on the night of October 31st and was considered the end of the harvest season. It was believed that on this night, the boundary between the living and the dead was blurred, and the spirits of the dead returned to the world of the living.

The Celts would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off evil spirits.

Ancient Rome When the Romans conquered the Celtic territories, they incorporated elements of Samhain into their own festivals. One such festival was Feralia, which was celebrated in late October to honor the dead. The very day after the Romans celebrated another festival known as Pomona, which celebrated the Roman goddess of fruit and trees. A notable symbol of Pomona was the apple, which may be why apple bobbing is a popular Halloween tradition.

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All Saints’ Day In the 8th century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1st as All Saints’ Day, a time to honor all the saints and martyrs of the Christian faith. The night before All Saints’ Day was known as All Hallows’ Eve, which eventually became known as Halloween.

During the Middle Ages, Halloween became a time of superstition and fear. It was believed that on Halloween, witches and other supernatural beings were active and could harm people. To protect themselves, people would wear masks or dress up as scary creatures to blend in with the spirits.

1900s - halloween in the us In the 19th century, Halloween became a more lighthearted holiday in the United States. Irish immigrants brought their Halloween traditions with them, including the custom of carving pumpkins.

Originally, turnips were used, but pumpkins were more readily available in the United States. Trick-or-treating, the popular tradition of going door-to-door asking for candy, also originated in the United States. It is believed to have originated from the ancient practice of “souling,” where poor people would go door-to-door asking for food in exchange for prayers for the dead.

halloween present day Today, Halloween is a global celebration that is enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a time when people can dress up in costumes and be whoever they want to be for a night. Halloween parties, haunted houses, pumpkin carving, apple bobbing, and trick-or-treating are all popular traditions associated with the holiday.

In conclusion, Halloween has a rich history that spans centuries.

From its ancient Celtic roots to its modern-day celebrations, Halloween has evolved into a holiday that is enjoyed by people all over the world. Its cultural significance may have changed over time, but the spirit of Halloween remains the same: a time to celebrate the harvest, honor the dead, and have fun with family and friends.

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DWIGHT HEAD COLOR PENCIL ARTIST

“

Its about the hustle. How much do you really want it.

Dont let anyone tell you no.

”

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DRAWING VISIONS WITH PRECISION.

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wight Head is a color pencil artist born and raised in Sacramento, CA. His passion for art began at the age of 17 when he worked with the US Army of Engineers art department, illustratrating brochures on wildlife and nature.

Dwight’s preferred medium is ink pen and color pencils, which allow him to have precise control over his artwork.

He manipulates his pieces to resemble paintings while incorporating elements of surrealism. His intention is to provoke thought and engage viewers on a deeper level. To achieve this, Dwight carefully selects a vintage aesthetic for his work. Dwight finds inspiration in books, particularly mystery, detective, and true crime novels. He also draws influence from horror movies.

By sketching and exploring different possibilities, Dwight eventually finds clarity and direction for each artwork.

Dwight’s exceptional ability to accurately depict the human body stems from his extensive use of anatomy books and art books.

Combined with his skillful use of ink pen, he can create intricate details that showcase his illustration skills. Aside from his work as a color pencil artist, Dwight also has a passion for collecting vintage pottery and kitchen items. He enjoys visiting yard sales, flea markets, and thrift stores in search of unique pieces.

Dwight’s creative process involves starting with a blank piece of paper, cutting it into the desired shape, and then selecting a color palette. This approach helps him avoid overworking the piece and allows ideas to flow naturally.

He emphasized that the choice between colored pencils and paint depends on the size of the piece.

To aspiring artists, Dwight advises embracing the hustle and pursuing their passion relentlessly, disregarding any discouragement from others. Reflecting on his experiences in 2023, Dwight humorously titled this chapter as “Are You Kidding Me.” He mentioned having a lot going on during the year. Dwight recently curated an art show called “The New Spin on Vinyl” at Kaneko Gallery in American River College. The exhibition, featured artwork by 20 artists created on vinyl records, that celebrated the history of Sacramento Tower of Records.

Completing a piece usually takes him around three to four weeks, as he prefers not to work on a single artwork for an extended period.

Before concluding the interview, Dwight expressed his utmost gratitude to his family and friends for their unwavering support throughout his artistic journey.

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Exploring the Dark Depths of Five Mysterious Masterpieces

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rt has always possessed an uncanny ability to captivate and move us, but some artworks transcend the realm of beauty and delve into the haunting and macabre. In this article, we will embark on a journey through the eerie and enigmatic world of five haunted art pieces: Portrait of Bernardo de Gálvez, Portrait of Henrietta Nelson, Pogo the Clown, The Rain Woman, and The Stagecraft. Respectively, these artworks challenge our perceptions and instill an unshakeable feeling of unease. Each piece tells a unique story, inviting viewers to confront their fears and explore the unknown. Lets explore further shall we...

The Portrait of Bernardo de Gálvez The Portrait of Bernardo de Gálvez is a captivating piece of art that has gained notoriety for its haunted reputation.

Believed to be haunted by the spirit of the Spanish military leader himself, the painting is said to exude an eerie energy.

Witnesses have reported strange occurrences when in the presence of the artwork, including unexplained cold drafts and flickering lights. Some claim to have heard whispers or felt a presence lingering behind them. The haunted nature of the Portrait of Bernardo de Gálvez has sparked curiosity and speculation among art enthusiasts and paranormal enthusiasts alike, making it a subject of fascination and intrigue.

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The Portrait of Henrietta Nelson William Johnson’s Portrait of Henrietta Nelson is a haunting representation of a woman trapped between worlds. Nelson’s ethereal figure seems to dissolve into the background, as if she is a mere specter haunting the canvas. The painting emanates a sense of melancholy and longing, leaving viewers with a feeling of unease. Legend has it that those who stare into Henrietta’s eyes for too long begin to lose themselves, their identities merging with hers in a horrifying union of spirits.

Pogo The Clown Pogo the Clown is a nightmarish portrayal of John Wayne Gacy, the infamous serial killer that claimed 33 lives of teenage boys.

The painting captures the sinister essence of the clown persona that Gacy adopted as his alter ego. Pogo’s menacing grin and piercing eyes seem to follow viewers, filling them with off a sense of dread. It is said that the painting holds a malevolent energy, with reports of unexplained phenomena occurring around it. Some claim to have seen the figure of Pogo move within the canvas, as if the spirit of Gacy himself lingers within the artwork cursing those who dare to possess the painting.

The Rain Woman Emily Ravenscroft’s The Rain Woman is a haunting and atmospheric piece that evokes a sense of loneliness and despair.

The woman in the painting stands in the pouring rain, her face hidden beneath a tattered umbrella. The melancholic colors and the woman’s expressionless gaze create an eerie atmosphere, as if she is trapped in an eternal downpour of sorrow. Viewers often report feeling a chill in the air and hearing the sound of raindrops while in the presence of this haunting artwork.

The Stagecraft Lucius Darkwood’s The Stagecraft is a mesmerizing yet unsettling piece that explores the duality of human nature. The painting depicts a theater stage, with intricately detailed props and scenery. However, upon closer inspection, the viewer realizes that the stage is inhabited by grotesque and nightmarish figures, each representing a different facet of the human psyche. The juxtaposition of beauty and horror creates a sense of unease, challenging viewers to confront their own inner demons.

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Discovering the depths of Flowers and flesh

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nya Thompson is a queer Jewish woman who has faced numerous challenges in her life, including OCD, Sensory Processing Disorder, Anxiety, and Depression. However, amongst all the challenges Anya is currently a graduate student pursuing Art History at UC Davis. According to Anya, studying art at a collegiate level has the most significant advantage of being part of a community that pushes artists to experiment and grow.

Anya’s specialty lies in coalescing humans and nature and she aspires to be recognized for her work while also sharing her struggles to help others feel less alone. Authenticity is key for Anya in consistently creating high-quality content on Instagram, where she shares her story, artistic process, and experiences.

Anya’s artistic journey began during her first year of college at Sierra College, where she explored darker ideas and found her artistic vision. Although drawing and sketching were her initial mediums, she now primarily uses oil paint, which she fell in love with after taking a class in 2019.

Gaia’s Orgasm

Many of Anya’s supporters have categorized her art as “floral gore,” however, Anya classifies her art as body horror, as it allows her the visual freedom to express herself.

Anya’s artistry showcases intricate details, a touch of horror, and a personalized approach to oil paint, creating visually captivating and thought-provoking artworks. Overall, Anya’s art is a unique blend of beauty, darkness, and surrealism, fueled by her personal experiences and emotions.

Her creative process is inspired by her life experiences and visual interpretations of song lyrics, with an emphasis on brainstorming and experimentation before translating ideas onto canvas. Her passion for oil painting stems from the medium’s experimental nature, which allows her to personalize the process and tailor it to her artistic vision.

Anya’s approach to expanding her creativity involves experimenting with different techniques and mediums, as she bounces from one medium to another.

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Anya encourages aspiring artists to use criticism constructively and not let hate comments discourage them, instead using them to propel themselves to greater success.

Currently, Anya’s most substantial project is her podcast, The E.A.R (The Educated Art Review), which she co-hosts with her friend Madeline Madrid.

Although it took two years to get off the ground, the podcast is gaining momentum and creating an approachable way to bring art history to people.

Anya’s parting words reflect her artistic philosophy; “Comfort the Disturbed,” which expresses her desire to create expressive pieces that merge beauty and pain.

This painting was really one of my first experiments into the 3D art realm and my first adventure in using moss in my paintings.

The painting represents the power of nature, specifically the innate feminine power within nature. 2021.

ANYA THOMPSON

Anya Thompson with her portrait “Bugged Out” in front of the Leland Stanford Mansion in downtown Sacramento.

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Lanser Howard Author. Journalist, Screen writer. Producer

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n the beginning of his career, Howard started out as a journalist before transitioning into film, he now focuses his attention on poetry. His latest book, “The Screaming Silence,” explores themes of loss and resilience and is available at various retailers.

In this interview, Howard discusses his writing journey, his genre preferences, and the inspiration behind his work. When asked about how he became involved with writing, Howard reveals that he started by writing screenplays, eventually finding success with a produced screenplay.

Lanser has had the opportunity to produce a documentary film, “Fight Life,” which delved into the truth about Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). This experience, along with working closely with combat veterans, inspired Howard to write “The Screaming Silence” as a means of unloading the weight of their harrowing stories.

THE SCREAMING SILENCE

Regarding his genre preferences, Howard expresses an attraction to drama and horror. He explains that his inclination towards the dark side is influenced by personal experiences of loss. Released during the COVID-19 pandemic, “The Screaming Silence” aims to help readers overcome their own losses by finding strength and motivation within themselves. The book explores the duality of silence, presenting it as either a beautiful symphony or a terrifying scream that lingers in one’s mind.“The Screaming Silence,” has received positive feedback from readers worldwide, helping readers to overcome their darkness and difficult times.

Howard believes that the feedback he receives is his greatest reward.

I can’t sleep tonight something breathes in my ear.

Howard’s inspiration comes from ideas and from people who inspire him and who have overcome great odds. He also finds inspiration in music and nature, often going on drives or hikes to immerse himself and find stories. Howard’s passion for songwriting is also evident, as he combines his trips to the ocean or mountains with music and writing songs.

The rage rattles the cage around my heart never any peace.

In terms of his writing process, Howard explains that a book of poetry takes about 6-8 months to complete, as he already has a collection of diverse pieces that can be pieced together like a puzzle. On the other hand, writing a novel requires more time, with at least a year dedicated to research and outlining, followed by another year for writing, rewriting, and editing. Overall, Howard estimates that it takes around two years to complete a novel.

Beethoven symphonies crash back and forth I see bodies hanging from the rafters laughing at me telling me to find a better way but none of this touches a nerve.

It’s the dead screaming silence of loss that kills me— this I cannot live with.

On the topic of writer’s block, Howard acknowledges its presence as a writer’s worst enemy, capable of striking at any time. He emphasizes the importance of finding ways to overcome it and continue the writing process.

Howard’s advice for fellow writers is to follow their hearts and not to listen to anyone who discourages them. If writers believe in their work, they should dedicate their lives to it, and it will become a reality. He emphasizes that belief is all writers need to achieve their goals.

Regarding his upcoming projects, Howard mentions that he is currently working on a novel called “Fiddletown.” The book tells the dark history of Placerville, a true American horror story, and the unspeakable evil that resided in one house, which one family experienced. Additionally, the book highlights the inspiring story of one remarkable woman who overcame all odds to get out of Dodge. Howard believes that truth is always more terrifying than fiction and that fear is coming the readers’ way.

In closing, Howard shares a powerful message with readers, “Polish your pain, and one day it will be your greatest source of strength.” This message reflects the emotional depth of his work and his personal experiences with loss and resilience.

But dream to live without.

- Lanser Howard

@lanserhoward

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ad Habits Cinema, the independent film production company founded and operated by Wes Smith and Jeff Williams, released their latest film, “Pillow Man,” on October 13, 2023. In a recent Q&A with Epiphany Magazine, the filmmakers shared their thoughts on the making of the film, from its origins to the amazing support they received from supporters and viewers at the opening premier that took place at the Colonial Theater.

The Birth of Pillow Man: The concept for “Pillow Man” was born 25 years ago when Smith and Williams were young and broke, armed only with a camera, a pillow, and their imaginations. The idea of a character with a face made of pillow was a sensitive topic, and they decided to bring him back to life for a fun and unique film. “Pillow Man” is a living cartoon, a black and white character stuck in a fever dream that many find relatable. The goal of the film was to provide a fun experience for viewers from start to finish.

Filming Locations and Production Timeline: The film was shot in several locations throughout Sacramento, including the Colonial Theater, Dwell Point basement, a parking lot, a large park, and on a green screen. The process of making the film took about a year and a half, including reshooting the entire film. The filmmakers expressed that the best part of bringing their vision to life was having control and expressing exactly what they wanted, but the process involved hundreds of hours of work, editing, and planning the event, which was quite challenging.

Final Insights: “Pillow Man” is a unique and fun indie film that has been brought to life through the creativity and dedication of Wes Smith and Jeff Williams from Bad Habits Cinema. The film offered a refreshing and unconventional concept that provided a memorable experience for the viewers.

Wes and Jeff ’s passion for filmmaking shines through in their attention to detail and commitment to creating an enjoyable theater experience.

Reflecting on the premier, the audience relished with laughter at the genius of Smith and William’s far out vision of Pillow Man on the big screen.

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10

Halloween Movie Night Classics

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10. The Fly (1986) - David Cronenberg’s body horror film about a scientist who slowly transforms into a grotesque human-fly hybrid.

9. Child’s Play (1988) - A horror film about a possessed doll named Chucky, who terrorizes a young boy and his mother.

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8 7. The Lost Boys (1987) - A stylish vampire film that follows two brothers who discover a group of youthful vampires in a California beach town.

8. An American Werewolf in London (1981) - A horror-comedy film that tells the story of an American tourist who is bitten by a werewolf while traveling in England.

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6 6. Friday the 13th (1980) The first installment of the long-running slasher franchise, featuring the iconic hockey mask-wearing killer, Jason Voorhees.

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TOP 5

5. Hellraiser (1987) Clive Barker’s dark and twisted horror film about a puzzle box that opens a gateway to a realm of sadistic pain.

2. The Shining (1980) - Stanley Kubrick’s is the chilling adaptation of Stephen King’s novel, It follows the descent into madness of Jack Torrance, played by Jack Nicholson, as he becomes the caretaker of the isolated Overlook Hotel and faces supernatural forces that threaten his family.

4. The Evil Dead (1981) - Sam Raimi’s cult classic horror film about a group of friends who encounter demonic forces in a cabin in the woods.

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3 3. Poltergeist (1982) - A supernatural horror film that follows a family tormented by malevolent spirits in their suburban home.

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1 1. A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984) - Wes Craven’s iconic slasher film that introduced the world to Freddy Krueger, a supernatural killer who attacks teenagers in their dreams.

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Tarot

The Ancient Art of Divination

The origins of tarot cards can be traced back to the 15th century, where they emerged in Europe as playing cards for games such as the Italian tarocchini and French tarot.

However, the true origins of the symbolism and mysticism associated with tarot are shrouded in mystery. Some theories suggest that tarot cards have roots in ancient Egyptian or Jewish mystical traditions, while others connect them to the rich symbolism of the Renaissance period. Regardless of their precise origins, tarot cards have been used for centuries as a tool for divination, spiritual insight, and personal growth.

Paragraph 3: Examination of Pamela Colman Smith’s artistic influences and her unique artistic style in tarot card design.

PAMELA COLMAN SMITH Pamela Colman Smith, born in 1878, was a highly influential designer and illustrator of her time, who played a pivotal role in the creation of the first tarot card deck as we know it today. Her artistic vision and unique style breathed new life into the ancient divination tool, captivating hearts and minds for generations to come. Pamela, often referred to as Pixie, was a multifaceted artist who excelled in various mediums, including painting, illustration, and writing. However, it was her collaboration with renowned scholar Arthur Edward Waite that would forever secure her place in tarot history.

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THE EVOLUTION Pamela Colman Smith’s tarot deck, with its vibrant and evocative illustrations, had a profound impact on the popularity and perception of tarot cards. Prior to the creation of the Rider-Waite-Smith deck, tarot was mainly associated with esoteric circles and occult traditions. However, Pamela’s deck brought tarot into the mainstream, appealing to a broader audience interested in personal growth, self-reflection, and divination. The deck’s success paved the way for the production of numerous tarot decks by different artists, each offering their own unique interpretations and artistic styles.

Over time, tarot cards have evolved and diversified, reflecting the changing needs and spiritual inclinations of different cultures and belief systems. Artists and collectors have pushed the boundaries of creativity, producing decks that cater to a wide range of tastes and spiritual practices. Tarot cards have been adopted and adapted by various esoteric traditions, such as the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn and Aleister Crowley’s Thelema. Today, tarot decks continue to be created and embraced by individuals seeking guidance, inspiration, and a deeper connection with the mysteries of the universe.

THE LASTING

THE INGENUITY Pamela Colman Smith drew inspiration from a wide range of artistic influences, incorporating elements of symbolism, mythology, and folklore into her work. She was heavily influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement and the vibrant artistic scene of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Pamela’s unique artistic style combined intricate line work, vibrant colors, and a deep understanding of esoteric symbolism. Her illustrations for the tarot deck she co-created with Arthur Edward Waite, known as the Rider-Waite-Smith deck, showcased her ability to infuse each card with rich imagery and hidden meanings.

Pamela Colman Smith’s artistic contributions to tarot card design have left an indelible mark on the world of divination and self-discovery. Her innovative interpretations and vibrant illustrations continue to captivate and inspire people today. Tarot cards, whether in the form of Pamela’s RiderWaite-Smith deck or the countless decks that followed, serve as gateways to the unknown, offering insights and guidance to those who dare to embark on their journey of self-discovery. As the allure of tarot cards persists in contemporary society, Pamela Colman Smith’s legacy remains a testament to the enduring fascination and profound impact of this ancient divination tool.

THE SYMBOLISM AND MEANINGS The Rider-Waite-Smith deck, illustrated by Pamela Colman Smith, introduced groundbreaking interpretations and symbolism to the world of tarot. Each card in the deck tells a story, featuring archetypal figures, mystical creatures, and symbolic elements. For example, the Fool card represents new beginnings and the willingness to take risks, while the High Priestess embodies intuition and inner wisdom. Pamela’s illustrations brought these archetypes to life, making them accessible and relatable to a wide audience. Her unique interpretations of the tarot cards laid the foundation for the modern understanding and use of the deck.

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JOURNEY INTO DIANA ORMANZHI’S MYSTICAL REALM OF ART Far more than an artist, Diana Ormanzhi is a committed creative that who’s work spans across embroidery, drypoint etching, and linoleum block printing.

I treat my paintings as glimpses into a slightly different dimension or lost artifacts from the Anthropocene. A lot of them are linked together through small stories that I hope to weave together as my art keeps developing.

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“Fear of the Unknown” 23x27 Oil and Acrylic on Wood How do you embrace technological advancements while staying connected to your roots? A few of my paintings explore this theme by juxtaposing natural elements with robotic ones.

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FRANK. 2019 Sam Young