A Pioneering Artist in Tarot History

This tutorial is based on the 78-card Tarot deck illustrated by Pamela Colman Smith for Arthur Edward Waite, first published in 1909 by William Rider & Son, Ltd. It is commonly referred to as the Rider-Waite Tarot or the Rider Pack, and it remains one of the most influential Tarot decks in history.

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Who Was Pamela Colman Smith?

Pamela Colman Smith was born in England on February 16, 1878. She spent much of her early life in Jamaica and New York, where she studied at the Pratt Institute, a prestigious school for artists and creative professionals. Throughout her life, she supported herself as an artist, writer, and theatrical designer.

In 1909, she was commissioned by Arthur Edward Waite to illustrate a new Tarot deck for his book The Pictorial Key to the Tarot (1910). Her artwork brought the cards to life with rich symbolism and emotional depth, especially in the Minor Arcana, which had previously been depicted with minimal imagery.

Pamela died on September 18, 1951, at the age of 73. Though she received little recognition during her lifetime, her work has since become foundational to modern Tarot practice.

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The Structure of the Tarot Deck

The Tarot deck is divided into distinct parts:

🔹 Minor Arcana (56 Cards)

These cards are split into four suits:

• Wands (Fire)
• Cups (Water)
• Swords (Air)
• Pentacles (Earth)

Each suit contains ten numbered cards and four Court Cards:

• Page
• Knight
• Queen
• King

While Court Cards are not technically a separate subset, they are often discussed as a group due to their symbolic importance. They represent personalities, roles, or archetypes that appear in readings.

🔸 Major Arcana (22 Cards)

These cards depict powerful symbols, archetypes, and spiritual lessons. They represent the journey of the soul through stages of growth, challenge, and enlightenment — often referred to as “The Fool’s Journey.”

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The Philosophy of Divination

There are many beliefs about where the power of Tarot comes from:

• Some believe the cards themselves hold mystical energy.
• Others see Tarot as a tool through which a higher power offers guidance.
• Many view Tarot as a mirror of the subconscious, helping us access inner wisdom.

Ultimately, no one can answer this question for you. Your personal beliefs and life experiences will shape how you interpret the cards and where you believe their insight originates.

At the very least, studying Tarot helps develop your intuition, allowing you to gain deeper insight into yourself and the world around you.

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Respecting the Practice

Regardless of your beliefs, it is essential to approach Tarot with respect and integrity. Treat your cards with care, and always honor your seeker — the person receiving the reading — with honesty, compassion, and ethical responsibility.