Kim Krans, Creator of Wild Unknown Tarot Deck

With its intricate illustrations and unique interpretations of traditional tarot archetypes, the Wild Unknown deck has been capturing the attention of tarot enthusiasts and art aficionados alike since its creation in 2012. Behind the magic of this captivating deck is Kim Krans, the artist and creator responsible for bringing the Wild Unknown to life. In this exclusive interview, we delve into the inspiration and creative process behind the Wild Unknown Tarot, explore Krans’ artistry and design elements, and uncover the spiritual and natural connections woven throughout the deck. Join us as we uncover the secrets of the Wild Unknown Tarot and get a glimpse into the mind of its creator.

Inspiration and Creation Process

As we dive into the world of Wild Unknown Tarot, one cannot help but wonder about the inspiration and creation process behind the deck. What inspired artist Kim Krans to create the deck that has become a beloved favorite among tarot enthusiasts? How did she go about translating her visions into 78 captivating cards? In this section, we will explore the origins of the Wild Unknown Tarot deck and uncover the intricate process of its creation. For those who need a refresher on the deck’s symbolism or tips on how to use it, check out our guide on Wild Unknown Tarot symbolism or tips on using the Wild Unknown Tarot deck.

Inspiration for the Deck

Inspiration for the Deck

Kim Krans, the creator of the Wild Unknown Tarot deck, was inspired to create this deck after years of reading and studying the tarot. Krans was fascinated by the symbolism and imagery present in tarot cards and felt drawn to create her own deck that would reflect her personal interpretation of the cards.

One of the main inspirations for the Wild Unknown Tarot deck was Krans’ deep connection to nature. She wanted to create a deck that would showcase the beauty and power of the natural world and help people connect with their inner selves, as well as the world around them. Krans says that she sees the natural world as a mirror for the human experience and believes that nature can help us to gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place in the world.

Krans also drew inspiration from other tarot decks, such as the Rider-Waite and Thoth decks, as well as her own personal experiences and intuitive insights. She wanted to create a deck that would resonate with both beginners and experienced readers, and offer a fresh perspective on the traditional tarot imagery.

The Wild Unknown Tarot deck features both major and minor arcana cards, each with its own unique symbolism and meaning. Krans chose to use simple, minimalist artwork for the cards, with a focus on bold, graphic imagery and a limited color palette. The artwork in the deck is meant to be open to interpretation and allows the reader to connect with the cards on a personal level.

Krans’ inspiration for the Wild Unknown Tarot deck came from her love of the tarot, her connection to nature, and her desire to create a deck that would offer a fresh perspective on traditional tarot imagery. The result is a beautiful, intuitive deck that has become a popular choice among tarot enthusiasts and beginners alike.

To learn more about the Wild Unknown Tarot deck, check out our guide to the Wild Unknown Tarot for beginners, as well as our tips for cleansing and charging your deck and connecting with the spirit animals in the deck. You can also read our comparison of the Wild Unknown Tarot deck to other popular tarot decks in our article Wild Unknown Tarot vs Popular Decks.

Creation Process

Kim Krans, the creator of the Wild Unknown Tarot, didn’t set out to create a tarot deck initially. According to her, the idea slowly formed in her mind over a number of years as she explored different art forms and dabbled in symbolism. Eventually, she concluded that tarot would be the most useful way to combine her varied interests and convey her artistic vision.

The Deck Structure: When developing the Wild Unknown Tarot, Kim chose to follow the traditional tarot structure with 22 major arcana cards and 56 minor arcana cards divided into four suits: wands, cups, swords, and pentacles. However, she decided to rename some of the cards to better align with the deck’s spirit and vision.

The Artistic Process: Krans has noted that the creation of the deck was an intensely personal and reflective process. She began by carefully selecting a range of symbols and animals that resonated with her and were meaningful both to her as an individual and in a broader cultural context. She then employed a variety of artistic techniques, including pen and ink, watercolor, and collage, to create a rich and evocative visual world filled with striking images and vivid colors.

Card Imagery: Krans has described the process of developing the cards as a form of meditation, in which she would allow herself to be intuitively guided by the symbols and concepts that she had chosen. As such, many of the cards feature powerful animal imagery, such as the bear in the Strength card or the owl in the High Priestess card. Additionally, the deck is filled with images drawn from the natural world, such as trees, flowers, and landscapes.

Symbolism: Many of the symbols used in the Wild Unknown Tarot also have rich and complex meanings beyond their immediate visual impact. For example, the pentacle suit represents the element of earth and is associated with material concerns such as money, health, and security. Meanwhile, the sword suit represents the element of air and is associated with mental processes such as logic, communication, and decision-making.

The Creation Process of Wild Unknown Tarot deck is unique in its meditation-like approach. This led to the selection of symbols and animals that resonate with Krans, and the resulting imagery is inspired and compelling. If you would like to learn more about the Wild Unknown Tarot, you can read about the major arcana, minor arcana, or how to cleanse and charge the deck.

Design and Artwork

As we continue our exploration into the Wild Unknown Tarot deck, we cannot help but marvel at the intricate and meaningful design elements of the cards. Each card is a visual representation of the energy it embodies, and the artwork is a crucial component in conveying its message. The artistic process of creating the deck was intentional and carefully curated, resulting in a visually stunning and spiritually powerful deck. In this section, we will dive deeper into the design and artwork of the Wild Unknown Tarot deck, examining the various elements that contribute to its unique and captivating aesthetic.

Design Elements of the Deck

The design elements of the Wild Unknown Tarot deck are integral to its success and appeal. Here are some of the key design features that make this deck so unique and captivating:

• Minimalist Color Palette: The deck features a minimalist color palette of black, white, and a range of muted earth tones. This limited use of color is intentional, as it allows the symbolism and imagery of the cards to take center stage.
• Nature-Based Imagery: The imagery throughout the deck is heavily nature-based, from animals and insects to trees and landscapes. This aligns with the deck’s overall theme of reconnecting with the natural world.
• Unique Imagery for Each Card: Each card in the deck features its own unique imagery. This sets the deck apart from traditional tarot decks, which often use the same imagery for each card within a particular suit.
• Symbolism: The symbolism used throughout the deck is carefully chosen and meaningful. For example, the pentacle in the Suit of Pentacles represents abundance and grounding, while the sword in the Suit of Swords represents intellect and mental clarity.
• Hand-Drawn Artwork: The artwork throughout the deck is hand-drawn by creator Kim Krans. This lends a personal touch to each card and contributes to the deck’s overall authenticity.
• Symmetry: The design of each card is symmetrical, with elements often mirroring each other. This creates a sense of balance and harmony within each card.
• Negative Space: The use of negative space in the design of each card is intentional and adds to the minimalist feel of the deck. This allows the imagery and symbolism to stand out even more.

Together, these design elements come together to create a truly unique and beautiful tarot deck. The Wild Unknown Tarot’s popularity is a testament to the power of thoughtful and intentional design.

Artistic Process

When it comes to the artistic process behind the Wild Unknown Tarot deck, Kim Krans took a unique approach that involved a deep connection with the natural world. Here are some key steps in her process:

• Sketching the Cards: Krans first sketched out each tarot card by hand, using pencil and paper. This process allowed her to create a foundation for each card, while still allowing for flexibility in the final design.
• Meditation: After creating a rough sketch, Krans entered a meditative state to tap into her intuition and connect with the energy of each card.
• Inking: Using a fine-tipped pen, Krans then carefully inked each card by hand, bringing her original design to life. This process required a great deal of precision and attention to detail.
• Coloring: Once the cards were fully inked, Krans applied watercolor paints to add the final touches. She used a limited color palette of muted tones, which helps to create a cohesive feel throughout the deck.
• Iterating: Krans repeated this process for every single card in the deck, a task that took several years to complete. She continued to refine and iterate on each design until she felt they accurately conveyed the energy and essence of the card.

Krans’ commitment to the artistic process shines through in the Wild Unknown Tarot deck, which features intricate designs that are deeply connected to the natural world. By sketching, meditating, inking, coloring, and iterating, Krans was able to create a deck that feels both timeless and distinctively her own.

Interpreting the Cards

As we delve deeper into understanding the Wild Unknown Tarot deck, one of the essential aspects is to interpret the cards’ meanings. The cards’ interpretations play a fundamental role in providing insights, guidance, and clarity in various aspects of our lives. Each card in the deck has a unique meaning and significance that can help us understand the underlying energies and influences in a given situation. In this section, we will explore the different ways of interpreting the Wild Unknown Tarot deck and how it can be applied in practice.

Meaning of the Cards

The Wild Unknown Tarot deck is made up of 78 cards divided into two major groups, the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. The Major Arcana consists of 22 cards, which are all individually numbered and depict archetypal figures, such as The Fool, The Magician, and The Sun. These cards represent universal themes and esoteric concepts, and can represent major life events and turning points.

On the other hand, the Minor Arcana consists of 56 cards further divided into four suits: Wands, Cups, Pentacles, and Swords. Each suit consists of 14 cards, numbered from Ace to 10, and four Court Cards: Page, Knight, Queen, and King.

The Wands suit represents creativity, passion, and ambition. The Ace of Wands symbolizes new beginnings and opportunities, while the Ten of Wands represents the culmination of a creative project or the attainment of a goal. The Court Cards of the Wands suit represent different aspects of the creative process, from the youthful and eager Page of Wands to the experienced and authoritative King of Wands.

The Cups suit represents emotions, relationships, and intuition. The Ace of Cups symbolizes new beginnings in matters of the heart or spiritual growth, while the Ten of Cups represents harmony and fulfillment in relationships and community. The Court Cards of the Cups suit represent different emotional states and roles within relationships, from the sensitive and empathetic Page of Cups to the nurturing and intuitive Queen of Cups.

The Pentacles suit represents the physical world, material possessions, and practical matters. The Ace of Pentacles symbolizes new beginnings in financial or material matters, while the Ten of Pentacles represents the attainment of wealth, stability, and legacy. The Court Cards of the Pentacles suit represent different roles and attitudes towards material possessions, from the creative and resourceful Page of Pentacles to the practical and dependable King of Pentacles.

The Swords suit represents the mind, communication, and intellectual pursuits. The Ace of Swords symbolizes new beginnings in intellectual or analytical endeavors, while the Ten of Swords represents the end of a cycle of mental anguish or confusion. The Court Cards of the Swords suit represent different mental attitudes and communication styles, from the perceptive and analytical Page of Swords to the authoritative and strategic King of Swords.

Each card in the Wild Unknown Tarot deck carries a rich and complex set of meanings that can be interpreted in many different ways depending on the context of the reading and the individual’s own intuition and experiences.

Applying the Cards in Practice

After understanding the meaning behind each of the cards in the Wild Unknown Tarot deck, it’s important to know how to apply them in practice. The cards can be used for individual readings, as well as for readings for others.

Individual Readings:
During an individual reading, the person shuffling the deck should focus on their question or intention for the reading. Once the cards are shuffled and laid out in a spread, the person should take time to reflect on the meaning of each card and how it relates to their question or intention. It’s important to trust your intuition when interpreting the cards, as they can have different meanings for different individuals.

Readings for Others:
When reading for others, it’s important to establish clear boundaries and guidelines before beginning the reading. The person being read for should also focus on their question or intention for the reading. The reader should take time to explain the meaning of each card to the person being read for, as well as offer guidance on how to interpret the cards in relation to their question or intention.

Journaling:
Journaling can also be a helpful tool when using the Wild Unknown Tarot deck. After a reading, take time to write down the cards that were pulled, as well as your interpretation and any insights or epiphanies you had. By journaling, you can track patterns and themes that may arise over multiple readings.

It’s important to remember that the Wild Unknown Tarot deck is a tool for guidance and self-discovery, not a way to predict the future. Trust in the process and the messages the cards may hold for you.

Connection with Nature and Spirituality

As we delve deeper into the Wild Unknown Tarot deck, it becomes more apparent that the cards are not only a tool for divination, but a reflection of our connection with nature and spirituality. The intricate artwork and symbolism present in each card

intertwine with natural and spiritual elements that speak to our primal instincts. Let us explore this connection further, as we discover how nature and spirituality are woven into the cards’ interpretation and application.

Nature in the Deck

The Wild Unknown Tarot deck is known for its intricate and captivating artwork, which is heavily inspired by nature. The natural world has always been a source of inspiration for creator Kim Krans, and this is reflected in the cards.

The deck features strong animal imagery, with each of the 78 cards featuring different animals, plants, and other natural elements. These images are accompanied by minimalist text, which leaves ample room for interpretation.

One of the strengths of the Wild Unknown Tarot deck is the way in which it incorporates natural elements in a way that feels organic and authentic. From the fiery energy of the Lion card to the serene and calming imagery of the Star card, each card is crafted with care and with a deep appreciation for the natural world.

The Major Arcana

The Major Arcana cards in particular are heavily influenced by nature. For example, The Fool card depicts a bird perched on a branch, ready to take flight. The bird is the ultimate symbol of freedom and new beginnings, and this image perfectly captures the energy of the card.

Similarly, The World card shows a wreath made up of various plants and flowers. This symbolizes the interconnectedness of all living things, and reminds us that we are all part of the same ecosystem.

The Minor Arcana

In the Minor Arcana, each of the four suits is associated with a different element: Cups with water, Pentacles with earth, Swords with air, and Wands with fire. These elements are of course fundamental to the natural world and are essential to life.

Each card within a suit also features a different aspect of nature. For example, the Four of Cups shows four cups overflowing with water, while the Seven of Pentacles depicts a tree bearing fruit. These images are a reminder of the abundance and beauty that can be found in the natural world.

The Wild Unknown Tarot deck is a beautiful and powerful tool for connecting with nature and tapping into its wisdom. Whether you are a seasoned tarot reader or a beginner, this deck is sure to inspire and delight.

Spiritual Perspective on Tarot

The spiritual perspective on tarot is one of the most intriguing aspects of the Wild Unknown Tarot deck created by Kim Krans. The deck is, in a sense, a reflection of the spiritual journey that Krans has been on.

1. Connection with the Universe: For Krans, tarot is not just a set of cards or a tool for divination, but a way to connect with the universe. She notes that the deck is not tied to any particular religion or belief system, but is an open invitation to explore spirituality in a personal way.

2. Intuition and Self-Discovery: Krans emphasizes the importance of intuition when working with the tarot cards. She believes that the cards are simply a reflection of one’s own inner wisdom and can help people tap into their own intuition and subconscious mind. According to Krans, the cards can be used for self-discovery and personal growth.

3. Mind-Body-Spirit Connection: The Wild Unknown Tarot deck is deeply rooted in the natural world and the interconnectedness of all things. Krans sees the tarot as a tool for tapping into this web of connection and for gaining a deeper understanding of the mind-body-spirit connection.

4. Symbolism and Archetypes: The deck is filled with symbolism and archetypes that speak to universal truths and experiences. From the fierce energy of the Lion to the transformative power of the Butterfly, Krans has carefully chosen each symbol and image to convey a specific meaning.

5.Transcendence: Ultimately, Krans sees the tarot as a way to transcend the boundaries of the self and to connect with something greater. She invites users of the deck to open themselves up to the possibilities of the universe and to embrace the mystery and magic of life.

The spiritual perspective on tarot reflected in the Wild Unknown Tarot deck is one of openness, curiosity, and deep connection. Krans encourages users of the deck to explore their own personal spirituality and to use the cards as a tool for growth and discovery.

Future Plans and Projects

As the creator of the popular Wild Unknown Tarot deck, Kim Krans has certainly made a name for herself in the world of divination and spirituality. Although the deck was first released in 2012, Krans continues to work on new projects and has exciting plans for the future.

Expanding the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck

One of the most interesting plans that Krans has for the future involves expanding the Wild Unknown Tarot deck even further. Since its debut, the deck has become widely popular among readers and enthusiasts alike, so it’s no surprise that Krans has plans to continue building on its success.

While Krans hasn’t shared many details about what additional cards to expect, she has hinted that there may be some new themes or symbols that will emerge. Given Krans’ unique style and signature aesthetic, it’s hard not to get excited about what she might have in store for the deck and its followers.

Collaborations with Other Artists

Another future plan for Krans is to collaborate with other artists to create unique tarot decks and other divination tools. In fact, Krans has already collaborated with other artists, including Rachel Howe, to create the Spirit Speak Tarot deck.

Collaborations like this are exciting because they can bring a fresh perspective to the interpretation of tarot cards. When two or more artists work together, they can combine their individual skills and knowledge to create something truly unique and meaningful.

Expanding into Teaching and Workshops

In addition to creating new decks and collaborating with other artists, Krans also plans to expand into teaching and workshops. She has already hosted several successful workshops and retreats, but it’s clear that Krans has even bigger plans in mind.

In her workshops, Krans guides participants as they explore the meaning and symbolism behind tarot cards. Through interactive exercises, participants learn how to interpret the cards for themselves and even develop their own intuition and psychic abilities.

Final Thoughts

As Krans continues to build on her success with the Wild Unknown Tarot deck, it’s clear that she has a lot of exciting plans for the future. Whether she’s expanding the deck, collaborating with other artists, or teaching others how to use tarot for their own spiritual development, there’s no doubt that Krans will continue to make waves in the world of divination and spirituality. As readers and enthusiasts, we can’t help but be excited to see what she’ll do next.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the interview with Kim Krans, the creator of the Wild Unknown Tarot deck, sheds light on how the deck came to fruition and the artistic and spiritual process behind it. Krans’ inspiration for the deck came from her deep connection with nature and the desire to create a deck that felt like it was from the natural world. Through her creation process, she was able to capture the essence of each card in a way that is both symbolic and beautiful.

The design elements of the deck, such as the use of minimalist black and white imagery, provide a striking contrast that allows the user to focus on the meaning of each card. The artistic process that Krans implements in her work is evident through the attention to detail in each card. Each card is hand-drawn and then digitally edited, creating a unique juxtaposition that represents Krans’ artistic flair.

Interpreting the cards in the Wild Unknown Tarot deck can be challenging, but Krans has provided a guidebook that offers insight into each card’s meaning. The cards can be used in various ways, from daily reflection to divination practices. The deck allows for personal interpretation to help the user gain insight into their own lives.

The connection of the Wild Unknown Tarot deck with nature and spirituality is prominent throughout the interview. Krans believes that nature is an integral part of the human experience and that it is a source of wisdom and guidance. Spirituality plays a significant role in Krans’ work, and she believes that the Tarot can help individuals connect with their higher selves and find a deeper meaning in life.

Looking to the future, Krans plans to continue creating Tarot decks and other works of art that connect with individuals on a spiritual level. Her dedication to nature and spirituality is evident throughout her work, and it is clear that she will continue to inspire individuals on their spiritual journeys.

In summary, the Wild Unknown Tarot deck is a beautiful representation of Krans’ artistic and spiritual process. Its connection to nature and spirituality adds an essential element to the practice of Tarot, and its unique design and interpretation make it a valuable tool for personal growth and development. The interview with Krans provides insight into the deck’s creation and offers valuable information for those looking to incorporate the deck into their spiritual practice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What inspired Kim Krans to create the Wild Unknown Tarot deck?

Kim Krans was inspired to create the Wild Unknown Tarot deck through her love of nature, her background in art and design, and her interest in spirituality.

What is the creation process behind the Wild Unknown Tarot deck?

The creation process behind the Wild Unknown Tarot deck involved sketching out each individual card, studying the meaning and symbolism of each card, and creating the artwork using a combination of pen and ink, watercolor, and other media.

What design elements can be found in the Wild Unknown Tarot deck?

The Wild Unknown Tarot deck features minimalist design elements, including clean lines, simple shapes, and a limited color palette. The deck also incorporates natural elements such as animals and plants in each card.

What is Kim Krans’ artistic process for creating the Wild Unknown Tarot deck?

Kim Krans’ artistic process for creating the Wild Unknown Tarot deck involves immersing herself in nature, studying the symbolism and meaning of the cards, and using a variety of media to create each card.

What is the meaning behind the cards in the Wild Unknown Tarot deck?

The meaning behind the cards in the Wild Unknown Tarot deck varies depending on the individual card. Each card represents a concept, emotion, or situation that can be interpreted in a variety of ways.

How can the Wild Unknown Tarot deck be used in practice?

The Wild Unknown Tarot deck can be used for personal insight, meditation, and self-reflection. Many people also use the deck for divination and as a tool for personal growth.

What role does nature play in the Wild Unknown Tarot deck?

Nature plays a significant role in the Wild Unknown Tarot deck, with each card including a depiction of an animal, plant, or natural element. The deck encourages a deeper connection with the natural world and its significance in our lives.

How does spirituality play a role in the Wild Unknown Tarot deck?

Spirituality is a fundamental aspect of the Wild Unknown Tarot deck, with each card containing its own spiritual and symbolic meaning. The deck can be used as a tool for exploring one’s own spiritual journey and growth.

What future plans and projects does Kim Krans have for the Wild Unknown Tarot deck?

Kim Krans has continued to expand the Wild Unknown brand, including releasing several other tarot decks and various other products. She also plans to continue creating art and designs that inspire personal growth and connection with nature and spirituality.

What makes the Wild Unknown Tarot deck unique compared to other tarot decks?

The Wild Unknown Tarot deck stands out from other tarot decks due to its minimalist design, focus on nature and spirituality, and incorporation of symbolic meaning in each individual card. The deck offers a fresh perspective on the traditional tarot.

References

• The Wild Unknown Tarot Deck & Guides – Alchemist Kitchen
• WikiLeaks