Description
You are traveling a path. To both sides of you are death and life, headstones and a lily pond. Before you stands a decision. To the left are darkness, a tangled mass of trees and a road unkempt. To the right a grassy plain and cobbled lane. As the paths diverge and continue each takes on new characteristics, where in the end they are not what they seemed. The darker path reveals sunshine, the windswept plains lead to a difficult climb toward destruction, tumbling to the angry sea below.
Symbolism
In this card I used most of the common imagery found in the 3 of swords: the pierced heart, the storm and clouds, and the swords themselves. However, I elaborated on what I found in that imagery to include a more prominent image of a discussion to make, and the fact that those decisions have unforeseen outcomes. I chose to juxtapose the headstones and the lily pond to show a balance between life and death. I also contrasted the sun with the storm to demonstrate the extremes in emotion. The two paths, as well, or drastically differing in terrain and convenience or lack there-of. I was trying to show that because a decision seems sound does not mean it will conclude that way.
Card Meaning
To me this is a card of difficult decisions, probably in a time of pain or stress. Decisions are difficult to make for me, and so I have identified with this card because of that. I wanted to show that a choice must be made, but that perhaps seeing beyond the exterior is best, particularly when the things before them blind one. I think this falls closely in line with traditional interpretations so far as things coming out to the open and having to be dealt with, but also being blinded by emotions and current circumstances.
Artistic Media
I chose to use graphite (pencils), to my own detriment. Originally I thought I was going to color it, however once I looked at my coloring materials that went out the window. I'm pleased with the artwork; it's above standard for my skills. I am particularly satisfied with the trees. However I am very frustrated with the smooshyness of the pencils. There is shading where it shouldn't be and I cannot get rid of it without ruining things that I want there. Also, pencils do NOT scan well, word to the wise.
Artist's Bio
I am a full time Copy/Postal Clerk at a local university. I also go to school almost full time as a night student. I live in Sacramento, CA where I plan on purchasing a house this summer. I practice an energy based atheistic personal religion and draw on everything I learn about to support those beliefs and continue to evolve them. I've been reading Tarot for about two years and I have around nine decks or so. I'm much more of a writer than an author and spend all of my free time with my wonderful Beau and online playing writing RPGs.
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