“The Gaian Tarot is the most beautiful deck in the world . . .”

Dear Tarot Friends,

It's been nine long years since I began creating the Gaian Tarot.  I'm delighted that it is finally done! Time to celebrate! You may know that Llewellyn Worldwide will be publishing the deck & book kit in September 2011. Happily, my contract with Llewellyn has allowed me to also produce a deluxe Limited Edition, now available! (You can see some of my friends in the photo at the right, blessing the first decks and books that shipped out in March 2010.) As of early December 2010, 639 decks have found their way into happy homes. (The full edition is 1000 copies, 500 of each size.)

Here's what a few folks have said upon receiving their decks in the mail:

“I received my Gaian Tarot deck almost two weeks ago, and I can't hardly put it down long enough to THANK YOU ~~ It is the most beautiful deck I have ever seen!  And I have 100 decks that I have collected over the years. I started working with your deck right away, and it never fails to give the correct answer for any situation. The book is very well written, and easy to understand. Thank you so much for the most beautiful deck in the world ~~ it is such a joy to work with! Love the bag, and the amulet. It was a wonderful experience to just open the box! It really made my day!” - Vicky R., Indiana

“I did a reading over the weekend and it was one of the most insightful readings I've ever done for anyone — and the most impactful — and the easiest to read energetically.  I've always read Tarot from a more intuitive point of view than anything, and the Gaian Tarot makes readings done in my style so much easier.  You know, there's an amazing energy coming off the cards (including the backs) that makes it so easy to pick up the messages. The reading itself was life-changing for my client.” - Nancy H., San Diego

Here's what's in this set:

~ A full 78-card deck plus signed & numbered title card. 

You can have your choice of deck size: 

• 4×6 inches (great for meditation or display) or
• 3.5×5.25 inches (easier to shuffle and lay out a spread).

The Llewellyn version will be smaller than both of these.

The cards are printed on sturdy card stock by a local green printer with:

• recycled paper
• soy ink
• aqueous coating on the cards, not made from petroleum
• fabulous printing quality!

It took me quite a bit of research to find just the right printer. It is extremely important to me to invest in green printing for this deck as a way of honoring Mama Gaia. I'm very happy that the best printer turned out to be one that's local too, so I get to support the local economy. Right in tune with Gaian values!

“I just have to say how good these cards feel in my hands. The quality of the eco-friendly printing is spectacular, and the paper has a texture that begs to be touched. As soon as I picked up the deck, I instantly loved the physical feel of the cards.” - TarotExplorer.com

“My cards are here! It is so exciting to finally have them in my hands and to see how beautiful they really are in real life. I have so enjoyed sharing in your creative process as you posted all of your ideas and thoughts and dreams online that finally having the deck in person is like meeting an old friend. I especially appreciate all of the help and blessings that your friends and family poured into putting the final package together. All of that love and caring are absolutely woven into the deck making it shimmer. The cards are absolutely gorgeous, the packaging was pretty and so fun to unwrap. The bags and amulets are lovely and, oh my, the smell of lavender. Perfect. Congratulations on an amazing accomplishment, a great work of art and a gift to to so many. I put a lot of care into my own first reading. I drew one card, and it was Gaia. What could be more perfect? Many thanks for all of the gifts you have shared, Joanna.  This deck will be at the center of my own spiritual practice now and I am eternally grateful.” - Colleen T., Idaho

~ A signed companion book.

I think you'll be very happy with it. It's full of juicy content that is specific to this deck and its symbolism and themes. The book offers advice and practical counsel for you, the reader, through the divinatory meanings of each card. It also includes journaling prompts for self-exploration and prayers or affirmations for each card. There will be several Gaian-specific spreads included too.

And — my inner graphic artist got a chance to shine when I designed the book. It's visually beautiful. A feast for your mind and spirit!

Click here to read the Introduction and first chapter on the The Seeker (PDF).

“I just received my limited edition deck. What a thrill. I am covered with goosebumps and moved to tears by the beauty, sensory delights, and loving intention that arrived in that cardboard box. I feel honored and amazed by what you've created through your art, the cards, your book, and your attention to the details of making a wonderful surprise and treat for all who receive this gift. My work is to help people realize and share their unique gifts with the world and I have to say this is the most magnificent job I've ever seen of just that. So much gratitude and blessings for your happiness and well-being!” - Melissa Y., Oregon

 

~ A gorgeous, handmade bag to hold your cards.

My mermaid sister, textile artist Elaine Nichols, created the luscious bags for us.  (Yes, the same Elaine who made the gorgeous velvet bags for the Majors Only First Edition deck.)  Elaine even hand-dyed the handwoven cotton fabric and drawstring ribbon for the bags! Each one is a work of art and no two bags will be exactly the same.  (These bags usually sell for $50.00-$60.00.)

“Just a quick note to tell you how absolutely amazing the Gaia Tarot is.  I knew it was going to be wonderful but when I actually have it in my hands it is so much more . . . I don't know how you picked the bags for each person but with turquoise and purple and bright pink splashed throughout, mine could not be more perfect for me. I had my monthly Tarot Play group last night so I showed them all the deck and then we used it for the demo exercise. They all loved it. Someone said they thought this deck will go a long way toward debunking the negative occult connotations that many think of with the Tarot because it is so real and so connected to the earth and everyday events of our lives. Thank you for your work and dedication to this project . . . you have already and will continue to touch many lives with it and in the process help heal our world.” - Bev H., Ontario, Canada

~ A handmade Gaian Tarot amulet with the image of your choice, tied to the bag.

I started making these amulets last winter, and they were a huge hit at the Readers Studio in New York last spring. In fact, I sold out of all the amulet necklaces I brought with me to that event. Each one is made from polymer clay, gold leaf, shiny Pearlex powders and archival watercolor papers. The image is encased in "liquid crystal" set inside the textured frame. (I normally sell these for $50 each.) You can choose yours from any image in the deck.

~ My signature small bag of blessing herbs.

I've been growing these herbs in my island garden for ten years (yes, others are now tending it but I still go there to harvest the lavender, sage, and sweetgrass).  I harvest the fragrant cedar from my own backyard here at Rainbow Cottage. When you open your package, the aroma will envelope your senses! (Herb packets not sent overseas due to customs regulations.)

“Wow, wow, wow, wow, wow.  Mine arrived today.  You took such special care with every tiny detail and the deck is gorgeous!  I love the amulet, and I used the gold ribbon wrapped around the deck as a cord, it looks just right.  And it smells wonderful!  Thank you, thank you.  What a wonderful work of art you have created, you should be so proud!  I am feeling attached already. Huge hugs!”  - Jacquie F., Wisconsin

~ Free shipping in the U.S. and reduced international shipping.

(More photos from the packing party, March 2010)

A note about shipping: We ship by USPS Priority Mail and Global Priority Mail. We are offering free shipping in the US (normally $10.35). For our Canadian and Mexican friends, our reduced shipping fee is $14.00 (normally $26.00). In every other country, our reduced shipping fee is $22.00 (normally $42.00). We accept Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, money orders and personal checks.   And paying by mail: If you'd like to pay by check or money order, please mail the correct amount in US funds (including shipping, if you are outside the US) to: Joanna Powell Colbert 2403 James St #399 Bellingham, WA 98225 100% refund guarantee! If you're unhappy with the Limited Edition package when you receive it, just ship it back and we'll refund your money. No problem!

I’ve said many times that if I’d known it would take me nine years to finish this project, I never would have started it; so I’m glad I didn’t know! During the years I worked on the Gaian Tarot, I became immersed in the community (human and otherwise) of a small northwest island, and later left it to move back to the mainland. I nursed my beloved father through his last days and witnessed his passing. I became a grandmother. I went to Tarot conferences around the country and made many wonderful friends in the Tarot community. I started writing my blog, which has connected me with like-minded people like you around the world. I stayed centered in my circle of “mermaid” sisters and brothers here at home. The Gaian Tarot is a love letter to the Pacific Northwest and some very specific places in it. It’s a love letter too, to the community of people like you, who love and honor the Earth.  

With a heart full of love & gratitude,

Joanna Powell Colbert
www.GaianTarot.com

The Tarot community is raving about the Gaian Tarot . . .

“Joanna Powell Colbert’s exquisitely beautiful Gaian Tarot is much more than a tarot deck. It’s a doorway into a community of people living close to the land and its creatures. It’s a journey through the seasons where nature mirrors the joys and sorrows, pain and exaltation of what it takes to live in harmony with and through the earth. It reminds us how to know and respect the planet we live on. This is a very readable deck that, if you open to it, will take you right back to the elemental truth that resides inside everything.” ~ Mary K. Greer, author of 21 Ways to Read a Tarot Card, Tarot Reversals and the classic Tarot for Your Self.

“The Gaian Tarot is one of the most healing, powerful decks I've ever used for my clients. Its effect is, in a word, profound. I have observed even the most agitated, cynical, or despondent querents become completely captivated by the beautiful, strong images in these cards. From all backgrounds and walks of life, without exception, my clients strongly identify with this deck. And as they can so clearly see themselves in these cards, they can also envision new, inspiring possibilities and solutions to the concerns for which they have sought guidance. The Gaian Tarot is a rare treasure and belongs in the repertoire of every reader.”

~ Beth Owl's Daughter, professional Tarot reader and host of the Raleigh-Durham Tarot MeetUp, second largest Tarot MeetUp in the states

“I have been waiting avidly for this deck for a long time. It feels unlike any other tarot deck in its combination of a connection to nature and the sense of community it portrays. There are other nature-based tarot decks, but there are no people in them, and most are either southwestern/American Indian or Celtic in design. These are real people, real life scenes, modern and yet deeply rooted in the earth. Traditional tarot decks are largely missing in the natural world and even in relationships between people – this deck is rich in both. The deck feels immediately familiar, like coming home, and I look forward to having the opportunity to work with it.” ~ Teresa Michelsen, author of The Complete Tarot Reader and Designing Your Own Tarot Spreads and host of the Comparative Tarot email list.

“No matter what your spiritual path is, this is one gorgeous deck. But it is seriously steeped in earth-centered lore and symbolism, and is, in my opinion, hands down the best tarot for Pagans around. . .”
~ Diane Wilkes, Tarot Passages.com, author of the Jane Austen Tarot

“In the first years of the 21st century, humanity needs to be reminded of its unity with all of life. And we need to hold meaningful conversations about how to birth that unity in reality. The Gaian Tarot is one of the most powerful tools to come along recently that can help us to accomplish both of these things. Joanna Powell Colbert's cards ring with an authenticity that can only come from someone who lives what she depicts. I appreciate that they are rooted deeply in tarot tradition, yet are attuned to the consciousness of Earth and Her inhabitants in our own time. Whether for readings, meditation, contemplation, or ceremony, the Gaian Tarot's lush images will inspire, heal, and delight.” ~ James Wells, Tarot consultant & teacher, Toronto

 

Joanna Powell Colbert has created a contemporary tarot that feels timeless. In fact, the Gaian Tarot is a modern deck that feels mythic. The characters in Joanna's cards aren't figures from a long-lost past: they're real people, alive and well in the 21st century. Her love of friends and family, her remarkable sense of place, and her passion for nature shows in every card. I think it's the best contemporary deck on the market, and I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to use tarot for divination, meditation, or creative inspiration. ~ Corrine Kenner, author of Tarot for Writers and the forthcoming Wizards Tarot.

“Joanna Colbert's illustrations for the Gaian Tarot are as vivid as photographs and as subtle as memories. The deck features people, animals, and nature scenes rendered in almost hypnotic detail — pictures that vibrate with symbolic depth and evocative energy. While faithful to the traditional structure of the Tarot, these cards express that ancient wisdom in a new voice that is nurturing and firm, consoling and encouraging.

A deck like this one could only be created by an artist deeply in tune with a genuine, positive Presence, and Joanna has channeled that Spirit to create a living work of art — an exquisitely crafted map of the world and the self.”

~ Mark McElroy, author of The Bright Idea Tarot Deck, the Lo Scarabeo DaVinci Tarot and The Absolute Beginner's Guide to Tarot.

“Joanna Powell Colbert may well have produced her magnus opus and I’m awfully glad she did. This deeply profound and rich deck will be a mainstay for many Tarotists for many years to come. . . . It’s my belief that by using the Gaian Tarot for personal development and betterment, we can do just that. This beautiful set of tarot cards speak directly to your soul; what a wonderful achievement that is, and what joy must belong to Joanna for gifting the world with the means to find ourselves again.” ~ Catherine Chapman, TarotElements.com

“I've been a city girl for a long time (since way before I knew what the city was) but growing up in Maine and being as Neopagan as they come, my connection to the earth runs deep. Joanna Powell Colbert lives and breathes her connection and pours it all into her work, which is just one of the reasons why her Gaian Tarot moves me so deeply. The colors, the lines, the community and communion in each card… and plenty of symbols for my 'Tarot Mind' to chew on. I predict the deck will become a classic. Thank you, Joanna, for sharing your gifts and bright spirit with the Tarot community!”

~ Elizabeth Genco Purvis, graphic novelist, Tarotist, MarketingGoddess.com

“I followed this deck from the first time that I heard of it - and each card that was posted was breathtaking, filled with a sense of all that Gaia can be, as well as a full dose of the mystical Tarot at its very best. I was on pins and needles waiting for it to show up in my mail box - and when it did, I ran to the house to open it with a sense of excitement that has not been present for a very long time. I have found that indie publishers often go “full out” in the presentation of their material, and this was certainly the case with the Gaian Tarot. . . This deck absolutely took my breath away. I spoke above of “full out” presentation, and this was definitely “full out”! The cards came in a royal purple velvet Tarot bag (made by Elaine Nichols), lined with a green and purple patterned silk, with a gold drawstring. In the bag with the cards was a small sachet of mixed herbs (sage, sweetgrass, cedar and lavender), as well as a stone, shell and beach glass that were hand picked from local beaches. . . I have not seen a presentation this good since I received my copy of Ellen Lorenzi-Prince's Tarot of the Crone.” ~ Bonnie Cehovet on the presentation of the Majors-Only First Edition, Aeclectic Tarot

“The Gaian Tarot stands out as one of my very favorite decks of all time. As a collector of almost 1500 different decks (to date), it takes a lot to catch my attention. So when I first saw the artwork that Joanna had created for her deck, I was amazed at how expressive, visually appealing, exquisite, and complete each card appeared. The detail and depth of feeling expressed in each card is amazing, and rarely seen in other decks. Each card is a work of art, and the tarot reader, whether experienced or a novice, can amass an unending range of meanings from the beautiful visuals of the cards. . .

As the Green Movement continues to grow in this country and around the world, as our resources are being challenged, as people are awakening to value of our Blue Planet, the Gaian Tarot provides a way to connect back to nature and our source, something that is part of our collective longing.

I can't recommend this deck highly enough!”

~ Janet Berres, author of Tarot Kit For Beginners, past president of the International Tarot Society

“I heartily recommend this deck to not only to all who love the Tarot, but to all pagans who love fine art. Correct that. You don’t have to be pagan to appreciate this deck. Its sheer beauty and depth of symbolism will captivate many who are not on the pagan path.” ~ Valerie Sim, American Tarot Association Tarot Reflections