Unlocking the Secrets of the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck: A Guide to Understanding Symbolism

As human beings, we have always been fascinated by the mysteries of the universe and seeking answers to life’s most significant questions. One of the most popular methods of divination and self-discovery is through the use of tarot cards. The Wild Unknown Tarot Deck is a popular deck among tarot enthusiasts due to its stunning artwork and symbolism. The deck’s creator, Kim Krans, has created a unique system of symbolism that speaks to the deeper aspects of our psyche. In this in-depth article, we will explore the art, structure, and symbolism of the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck, and how it can be used as a tool for personal growth and self-discovery.

The Wild Unknown Tarot Deck: An Overview

When it comes to Tarot decks, few are as beloved and influential as the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck. Created by artist and designer Kim Krans, this deck has captivated Tarot enthusiasts and newbies alike with its stunning imagery and powerful symbolism. But what makes the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck so special? In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the deck’s artwork and design, and explore why it has become a staple for so many Tarot readers. For those of you just starting out with this deck, check out our Wild Unknown Tarot Beginner’s Guide for helpful tips and strategies.

The Art of the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck

The art of the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck is perhaps one of its most striking characteristics that draw so many people to it. Created by artist Kim Krans, the deck features minimalist yet powerful black-and-white imagery that beautifully captures the essence of each card.

Krans’ artwork is unique in that it employs a blend of both realistic and abstract styles, which makes each card stand out as an individual piece of art. The cards are simple yet intricate, with even the smallest details conveying a deeper meaning. For example, the card of the Devil features a goat with a third eye, symbolic of the illusionary nature of the material world and the temptation to pursue superficial pleasures.

Krans’ art style is also very intuitive and organic, which allows the deck to be used by readers of all levels. Each card is a visual depiction of a universal theme or archetype that is easy to connect with and understand. The art is not overwhelming or distracting, but rather serves as a subtle reminder of the core message of each card.

The art of the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck is a masterpiece in its own right. It perfectly blends together form and function, beauty and symbolism, and realism and abstraction to create a powerful tool for divination and self-discovery. To learn more about the deck, check out our tips and tricks guide, as well as our guides on the Major Arcana and Minor Arcana.

The Structure and Design of the Deck

The structure and design of the Wild Unknown Tarot deck is both simple and complex. The deck consists of 78 cards, divided into major and minor arcana. The major arcana consists of 22 cards, while the minor arcana consists of 56 cards which are further divided into four suits: wands, cups, swords, and pentacles. Each suit contains 10 numbered cards and four court cards: Page, Knight, Queen, and King.

One of the notable features of this deck is its minimalist design. The cards have a black background and the illustrations are done with simple lines and colors. However, the simplicity of the design is deceptive, as each card has been carefully crafted to convey depth and meaning.

Another interesting aspect of this deck is that it includes animals and natural elements in the illustrations. For example, the wands suit includes various birds, while the cups suit features sea creatures. This unique approach adds another layer of symbolism and meaning to the cards.

The cards themselves are printed on sturdy cardstock and have a matte finish that makes them easy to shuffle and handle. The compact size of the deck also makes it easy to carry and use on the go.

The Wild Unknown Tarot deck’s structure and design make it a unique and powerful tool for divination and self-discovery. For tips on how to use this deck effectively, you can check out our article on Wild Unknown Tarot Tips. Additionally, if you want to learn how to cleanse and charge your Wild Unknown Tarot deck, we recommend reading our guide on cleansing and charging or if you want to explore how to connect with spirit animals while using this deck, consider reading our article on Connecting with Spirit Animals in the Wild Unknown Tarot. Finally, to learn more about the creator of the Wild Unknown Tarot deck, you can read our interview with her here.

Understanding the Symbolism in Tarot Cards

Tarot cards are more than just pretty pictures on a deck. They are powerful tools that can provide insight and wisdom to those who seek them. However, understanding the symbolism in tarot cards can be overwhelming, especially for beginners. Every card in a tarot deck contains intricate details and hidden meanings. In this section, we will dive deeper into the symbolism behind each card and explore the archetypes and universal themes that are present in them. By the end, you will have a better understanding of the meaning behind each card and be able to use that knowledge to interpret a reading accurately. But before we begin, you may want to learn more about the differences between the Wild Unknown Tarot and popular decks – click here.

The Major Arcana: Exploring the Archetypes and Universal Themes

When exploring the symbolism in the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck, it is essential to begin with the Major Arcana. The Major Arcana features twenty-two cards that represent significant archetypes and universal themes. Each card in the Major Arcana depicts a powerful image that reflects the various stages of human life and consciousness.

The Fool: The Fool is a card of infinite possibilities, representing new beginnings, spontaneity, and innocence. It shows us that we all start our journeys with a sense of wonder and trust, and encourages us to embrace the unknown.

The Magician: The Magician is a master of manifestation, representing the power of intention, willpower, and confidence. This card reminds us that we all possess the power to create our reality and manifest our desires.

The High Priestess: The High Priestess represents intuition and the unconscious mind, highlighting the importance of listening to our inner voice and trusting our instincts. This card reminds us to seek wisdom within ourselves and trust our inner guidance.

The Empress: The Empress is a nurturing, sensual, and creative force, representing abundance, fertility, and emotional fulfillment. She reminds us to honor and care for ourselves and others, and to nourish our creativity and relationships.

The Emperor: The Emperor is a symbol of structure, stability, and authority, representing the power of leadership and reason. This card reminds us to take responsibility for our lives and make decisions based on logic and practicality.

The Hierophant: The Hierophant represents tradition, institutions, and organized religion, highlighting the importance of community and ritual in our lives. This card reminds us to honor our roots and respect the wisdom of our ancestors.

The Lovers: The Lovers are a symbol of unity, harmony, and choice, representing the power of love and partnership. This card reminds us to connect with our hearts and choose relationships and experiences that align with our highest good.

The Chariot: The Chariot represents victory, willpower, and determination, highlighting our ability to overcome obstacles and achieve our goals. This card reminds us to stay focused on our path and trust our inner strength.

Strength: Strength is a card of courage, compassion, and inner power, representing the power of self-mastery and transformation. This card reminds us to face our fears and access our inner reserves of strength and courage.

The Hermit: The Hermit represents solitude, introspection, and seeking wisdom, highlighting the power of inner contemplation and self-discovery. This card reminds us to take time for solitude and reflection to access inner guidance.

The Wheel of Fortune: The Wheel of Fortune represents the cyclical nature of life and the power of destiny, highlighting the importance of embracing change and trusting the unknown. This card reminds us to have faith in the ups and downs of life and trust that everything is in perfect order.

Justice: Justice is a card of balance, truth, and fairness, representing the power of accountability and responsibility. This card reminds us to make decisions from a place of integrity and to seek justice and balance in all areas of life.

The Hanged Man: The Hanged Man represents surrender, sacrifice, and letting go, highlighting the power of release and surrender. This card reminds us to let go of control and allow life to unfold.

Death: Death is a card of transformation, representing the power of endings and new beginnings. This card reminds us to embrace change and release what no longer serves us to make way for new growth and transformation.

Temperance: Temperance represents balance, harmony, and moderation, highlighting the power of finding equilibrium in all areas of life. This card reminds us to find balance in our emotions, relationships, and lifestyles.

The Devil: The Devil is a symbol of temptation and materialism, representing the power of addiction and illusion. This card reminds us to release ourselves from negative patterns and attachments.

The Tower: The Tower represents destruction, upheaval, and chaos, highlighting the power of sudden change and transformation. This card reminds us to embrace change and be open to new possibilities.

The Star: The Star represents hope, inspiration, and rejuvenation, highlighting the power of healing and renewal. This card reminds us to seek inspiration and guidance from within and trust the power of the universe.

The Moon: The Moon represents the subconscious mind, intuition, and mystery, highlighting the power of deep emotional healing and transformation. This card reminds us to connect with our emotions and seek deeper meaning in our experiences.

The Sun: The Sun is a symbol of joy, happiness, and success, representing the power of optimism and positivity. This card reminds us to embrace abundance and celebrate our achievements.

Judgment: Judgment represents reflection, awakening, and rebirth, highlighting the power of self-evaluation and transformation. This card reminds us to reflect on our past and embrace new beginnings.

The World: The World represents completion, fulfillment, and unity, highlighting the power of achievement and wholeness. This card reminds us to celebrate our accomplishments and appreciate the interconnectedness of all things.

The Minor Arcana: Decoding the Symbols and Meanings in the Four Suits

The Minor Arcana consists of four suits, each associated with a different element, and each suit is composed of fourteen cards: ten numbered cards and four court cards. These cards represent the everyday events and situations that we encounter in our lives, and they can provide insight into our thoughts, feelings, and actions.

Let’s decode the symbols and meanings in each of the four suits of the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck:

Suit	Element	Symbolism and Meanings
Wands	Fire	The wands symbolize ambition, energy, and creativity. They represent the beginning stages of a project or idea and the initial spark of inspiration. The numbered cards show the progression of the idea, while the court cards represent people who are driven and passionate about their goals.
Cups	Water	The cups represent emotions, intuition, and relationships. They reflect the ebb and flow of our feelings, our connections with others, and our ability to listen to our inner voice. The numbered cards show the different stages of emotional development, while the court cards represent people who are emotionally sensitive and in touch with their feelings.
Swords	Air	The swords symbolize the intellect, communication, and challenges. They represent the power of our thoughts and words to create change, as well as the obstacles that we may face in our journey. The numbered cards show the different aspects of the mind, while the court cards represent people who are analytical and logical in their approach.
Pentacles	Earth	The pentacles represent the material world, finances, and physical health. They reflect our relationship with money and our ability to manifest our goals in the physical plane. The numbered cards show different stages of material success, while the court cards represent people who are grounded and practical in their approach.

The four suits of the Minor Arcana each represent different aspects of our lives and personalities, and the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck’s symbols reflect these core meanings in a visually stunning way. By understanding the symbolism in the cards, we can gain deeper insights into our inner workings and respond more thoughtfully to the situations in our lives.

The Symbolism in the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck

As we delve deeper into the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck, we cannot overlook the essence of symbolism that brings these cards to life. Every card is filled with meaningful imagery, carefully designed to convey a message beyond its face value. The creators of this magnificent deck have poured their hearts and souls into every detail, ensuring that each card resonates with its own unique energy. So, let us explore the vast symbolism hidden within the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck, uncovering the secrets that lay dormant within these cards.

The Major Arcana: Analyzing the Imagery and Meanings in the Cards

When it comes to understanding the symbolism in the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck, analyzing the Major Arcana cards is a great place to start. These cards represent archetypes and universal themes in the human experience, and each one is rich with meaning and symbolism.

The Fool: The card that kicks off the Major Arcana is The Fool. This card often denotes new beginnings or the start of a journey. The figure of The Fool is often portrayed as carefree and unburdened by the concerns of the world.

The Magician: The Magician card is all about manifestation and using your inner resources to create change in the outer world. The figure on the card is often depicted as having all the tools he needs to create magic.

The High Priestess: The High Priestess is a symbol of intuition and the unconscious mind. She represents the idea that there are many things in the world that we cannot see or know, but that our intuition can lead us in the right direction.

The Empress: The Empress is all about nurturing and abundance. She represents the idea that we can create a world that is bountiful and fruitful if we care for it properly.

The Emperor: The Emperor is all about structure and authority. This card often represents a person or institution that we must obey or respect.

The Hierophant: The Hierophant represents tradition and religion. This card often asks us to consider the power and wisdom of our ancestors and the institutions that they created.

The Lovers: The Lovers card represents the power of choice and the possibility of romantic love. It also sometimes represents the need to take a step back and examine our desires and motivations.

The Chariot: The Chariot card is all about moving forward with purpose. It represents the idea that we have the strength and willpower to overcome obstacles and achieve our goals.

Strength: The Strength card is about inner strength and the power of courage and compassion to overcome any obstacle.

The Hermit: The Hermit is a card of introspection and solitude. It represents the idea that we must sometimes go within ourselves to find answers and meaning.

The Wheel of Fortune: The Wheel of Fortune represents the idea that life is constantly changing and that we must adapt to those changes in order to thrive.

Justice: The Justice card represents fairness, balance, and the idea that we get what we deserve.

The Hanged Man: The Hanged Man is about surrender and letting go of control. It represents the idea that sometimes we must give up something important in order to gain something even greater.

Death: The Death card is not about physical death, but rather about the death of old ideas and ways of being. It represents the idea that we must sometimes let go of the past in order to move forward.

Temperance: The Temperance card represents balance and moderation. It reminds us that we must find a way to bring our different parts and aspects into harmony.

The Devil: The Devil card represents temptation and the idea that sometimes we can become trapped by our own desires or addictions.

The Tower: The Tower represents upheaval and destruction. It reminds us that sometimes we must experience chaos and destruction in order to create something new and better.

The Star: The Star card represents hope and renewal. It reminds us that even in the darkest of times, there is always a glimmer of light shining through.

The Moon: The Moon is a card of mystery and the subconscious. It represents the idea that there are things in our lives that are hidden from us or that we cannot fully understand.

The Sun: The Sun represents joy and success. It is a card of positivity and abundance.

Judgement: The Judgement card represents the idea that we will all be held accountable for our actions at some point in our lives.

The World: The World card represents completion and fulfillment. It reminds us that we have the power to create the world that we want to live in.

The Minor Arcana: Understanding the Symbols and Meanings in Each Suit

In the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck, the minor arcana is divided into four suits, each with its own set of symbols and meanings. Understanding these symbols and meanings is key to interpreting the cards and gaining insight into the querent’s question or situation. Let’s take a closer look at each suit:

The Suit of Wands	The Suit of Cups	The Suit of Swords	The Suit of Pentacles
The suit of wands represents inspiration, creativity, and passion. It is associated with the element of fire and the astrological signs of Leo, Aries, and Sagittarius. Common symbols in this suit include trees, branches, flames, and lightning bolts. The wands often indicate action, courage, and confidence.	The suit of cups represents emotions, intuition, and relationships. It is associated with the element of water and the astrological signs of Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces. Common symbols in this suit include cups, chalices, water, and fish. The cups often indicate feelings, connections, and spirituality.	The suit of swords represents the mind, communication, and challenges. It is associated with the element of air and the astrological signs of Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius. Common symbols in this suit include swords, feathers, clouds, and wings. The swords often indicate thoughts, decisions, and conflicts.	The suit of pentacles represents the physical world, material possessions, and security. It is associated with the element of earth and the astrological signs of Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn. Common symbols in this suit include coins, earth, animals, and plants. The pentacles often indicate finances, work, and stability.

It’s important to note that the symbolism in the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck does not always follow traditional tarot interpretations. For example, the suit of swords in the Wild Unknown deck often includes feathers and birds, which may represent freedom and the power of the mind to overcome challenges, rather than simply indicating conflict and struggle. As such, it’s important to approach each card with an open mind and an intuition that is based on the imagery presented.

The Court Cards: Interpreting the Characters and Personalities

The Court Cards in the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck represent different personalities and energies that can come into play during a reading. There are four suits with three Court Cards in each suit, making for a total of twelve Court Cards in the deck.

The Wands Court Cards:
The Wands represent creativity, passion, and ambition. The three Court Cards in this suit are the Page of Wands, the Knight of Wands, and the Queen of Wands. The Page of Wands represents the youthful, creative energy that is open to new ideas and experiences. The Knight of Wands embodies the adventurous spirit that is willing to take risks and pursue its goals with determination. The Queen of Wands is a confident and charismatic figure that embodies leadership and creativity.

The Cups Court Cards:
The Cups represent emotions, relationships, and the inner self. The three Court Cards in this suit are the Page of Cups, the Knight of Cups, and the Queen of Cups. The Page of Cups represents the youthful and emotional energy that is open to love and new experiences. The Knight of Cups is a romantic and imaginative figure that embodies the pursuit of emotional fulfillment. The Queen of Cups is empathetic, nurturing, and intuitive, and represents emotional intelligence and compassion.

The Swords Court Cards:
The Swords represent intellect, communication, and decision-making. The three Court Cards in this suit are the Page of Swords, the Knight of Swords, and the Queen of Swords. The Page of Swords is a curious and intelligent figure that represents new ideas and perspectives. The Knight of Swords is a decisive and analytical figure that embodies swift action and clear communication. The Queen of Swords represents wisdom, logic, and inner strength, and embodies the ability to make difficult decisions with clarity and objectivity.

The Pentacles Court Cards:
The Pentacles represent material possessions, finances, and career. The three Court Cards in this suit are the Page of Pentacles, the Knight of Pentacles, and the Queen of Pentacles. The Page of Pentacles is a practical and studious figure that represents the pursuit of knowledge and skills that lead to abundance. The Knight of Pentacles embodies the hardworking and reliable energy that is necessary for success in career and finances. The Queen of Pentacles represents abundance, security, and nurturing of oneself and others, and embodies the ability to create a stable and prosperous life.

Understanding the personalities and energies of the Court Cards can provide valuable insights into the people or situations being represented in a reading. Each card carries its own unique symbolism and characteristics that can be interpreted in relation to the other cards in the reading.

Putting it All Together: Using Symbolism to Read Tarot Cards

As you delve deeper into the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck, you’ll likely start to recognize various symbols and patterns present throughout the cards. But how do you use this symbolism to actually read tarot cards? It may seem overwhelming at first, but with time, practice, and a trust in your intuition, you can begin to connect with the cards on a deeper level and use their symbolism to gain insight into your life and the world around you. In this section, we’ll explore ways to put all the symbolism together and read tarot cards with confidence.

Developing Your Intuition and Connecting with the Cards

As you delve into the world of tarot card reading, it’s essential to develop your intuition and connect with the cards on a deeper level. While understanding the symbolism and meanings of each card is crucial, it’s equally important to listen to your instincts and inner voice.

Here are some tips for developing your intuition and connecting with the cards:

Tip	Description
1. Meditate with the cards	Taking a few minutes to clear your mind and focus on a specific card can help you tap into your intuition and receive insights and messages from the card.
2. Keep a tarot journal	Note down your thoughts, feelings, and any associations that come up while looking at a particular card. Over time, you may notice patterns or recurring themes that can offer valuable insights into your own psyche.
3. Trust your instincts	When interpreting a spread or analyzing a particular card, trust your gut feeling and don’t second-guess yourself. Allow your intuition to guide you.
4. Engage all your senses	When examining a card, pay attention to the imagery, colors, and even the texture of the card. Engage all your senses to connect with the card on a deeper level.
5. Practice, practice, practice	Reading tarot cards is a skill that requires practice and patience. As you work with the cards more regularly, you’ll become more confident in your interpretations and trust your intuition.

Remember, the most important element in reading tarot cards isn’t memorizing the meanings or symbolism of each card but developing a strong connection with the cards and trusting your intuition. By approaching each reading with openness, patience, and a willingness to learn, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled and insightful tarot reader.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck is a beautiful and intricate tool for divination, meditation, and self-reflection. The deck’s unique artwork and design make it a valuable addition to any tarot collection, while its rich symbolism ensures that it can be used for a wide range of readings and interpretations.

Throughout this article, we’ve explored the structure and design of the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck, as well as its symbolism and meaning. We’ve delved into the archetypes and universal themes represented by the Major Arcana, and decoded the symbols and meanings in the Four Suits of the Minor Arcana. We’ve also analyzed the imagery and meanings of each card, and learned how to interpret the personalities and characters represented in the Court Cards.

But beyond the individual cards and their meanings, we’ve also learned how to use symbolism to read tarot cards, and how to develop our intuition and connect with the deck in a more profound way. Whether you’re a seasoned tarot reader or just starting out, the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck has much to offer in terms of insight, guidance, and self-discovery.

So if you’re looking for a powerful and visually stunning tarot deck that can help you tap into your own intuition and inner wisdom, then look no further than the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck. With its rich symbolism and evocative imagery, this deck is sure to inspire and enlighten you for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck?

The Wild Unknown Tarot Deck is a beautifully illustrated deck of 78 cards that can be used for divination, spiritual guidance, and personal growth.

Do I need to have any experience to use the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck?

No, the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck is suitable for both beginners and experienced readers. It comes with a guidebook that explains the meanings and interpretations of each card.

What is the difference between the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana in tarot?

The Major Arcana consists of 22 cards that represent universal themes and archetypes, while the Minor Arcana consists of 56 cards that represent more specific aspects of daily life.

What are the four suits in the Minor Arcana?

The four suits in the Minor Arcana are Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles. Each suit represents a different element and has its own set of meanings and interpretations.

What is the significance of the imagery in the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck?

The imagery in the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck is meant to be evocative and open to personal interpretation. Each card has its own unique symbolism that can enhance your understanding of its meaning.

Can I use the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck to predict the future?

The Wild Unknown Tarot Deck can be used for divination, but it is important to remember that the future is not set in stone. The cards can provide guidance and insight, but ultimately it is up to you to shape your own destiny.

How can I connect with the cards on a deeper level?

To connect with the cards on a deeper level, you can try meditating with them, journaling about your readings, or even sleeping with them under your pillow. The more you interact with the cards, the more intuitive you will become.

How do I know which spread to use when reading the cards?

There are many different spreads you can use when reading the cards, from simple three-card spreads to more complex layouts like the Celtic Cross. Choose a spread that feels intuitively right for your question or situation.

Can I use the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck for self-reflection and personal growth?

Absolutely! The Wild Unknown Tarot Deck can be a powerful tool for self-reflection and personal growth. It can help you gain insight into your strengths, weaknesses, and deepest desires.

Do I have to believe in tarot to use the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck?

While belief in tarot is not necessary to use the Wild Unknown Tarot Deck, it is important to approach the cards with an open mind and a willingness to engage with their symbolism and meanings.

References

• The Wild Unknown :: Tarot Card Meanings
• Ace of Cups