Pamela Colman Smith - Tarot
Pamela Colman Smith, often referred to as "Pixie," is best known for her work as an illustrator of the Rider-Waite Tarot deck, one of the most popular and enduring tarot decks in use today. Born on February 16, 1878, in London, England, Smith was an accomplished artist, writer, and occultist.
Smith was introduced to the world of mysticism and the occult through her association with the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, a secret society devoted to the study and practice of the occult, metaphysics, and paranormal activities. It was through this connection that she met Arthur Edward Waite, a prominent member of the order. Waite commissioned Smith to create a fully illustrated tarot deck, a task she completed in 1909.
The Rider-Waite Tarot deck, named after both Waite and the publisher, Rider Company, was groundbreaking because it was one of the first decks to feature detailed illustrations for all 78 cards, including the Minor Arcana. Smith's unique and evocative artwork brought the cards to life, making them more accessible and easier to interpret for both novices and experienced tarot readers.
Despite the deck's success, Smith did not gain significant financial benefit or widespread recognition during her lifetime. She continued to work as an artist and illustrator but struggled with financial instability. Pamela Colman Smith died in relative obscurity in 1951.
Today, her contributions to the world of tarot are celebrated, and she is recognized as a pioneering force in the field of divinatory arts. Her artwork continues to inspire and guide countless individuals seeking insight and wisdom through the tarot.
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