9 of Wands

This painting was created for “The Woven Path Tarot” (2021), a project I was invited to by my wonderful friends from the Changeling Artist Collective. We were inspired by tapestries, so each one of us created an illustration with this in mind.

This 9 of wands was one of my first card illustrations and the one that I believe is the one I most identify with. From what I read when I was gathering ideas (and I was still new to Tarot), I learned that this card symbolizes hope even when we’re facing problems. While we’re facing to many things in our lives, our strength, will and determination pushes us forward until we’re able to overcome them.

What I found so relatable is the feeling of reaching the end of a current situation and immediately facing a new challenge right ahead. It could be nothing to worry about, it could be something that will require us to fight hard again. We can all relate to that, right?

This painting was my first real, personal interpretation of a Tarot card.

I wanted this card to represent my perception of life:  Will there be trouble ahead? Or will I be able to rest? Will this be my destination or will I have to keep moving?

I thought of a sorceress, hurt with her clothes and armor damaged. Walking forward. The yellow color in the background gives warmth but it also brings to my mind the awful heat from the never ending Summers in my hometown, but also the warmth of the end of the day during the Golden hour. It mixes desperation and hope in my mind, which always come together with uncertainty. She’s reaching a change of scenery, with thin tree trunks damaged but healing and as they bring us to the portal of leaves there’s a new hope that things would be better. But also the possibility of finding thorns in our path.

This painting has a very special place in my heart. Specially since this Tarot deck was an effort between so many artists I admired back then, but now, I’m lucky enough to call them friends. I feel so happy looking at this illustration in the deck, and realizing the long road to create it. Looking at it reminds me of the many challenges that came after this painting was done (illustrating a full Tarot deck right after this card for example!), the awesome feeling when I showed it for the first time at the IX Arts Showcase last year and the new adventures (or weird situations) that will come in the future.

About the painting

This painting measures 12in x 24in and it’s taller than the card version.

It was made with oil paints on paper (mounted on board). It is varnished with beautiful gloss varnish and framed with this thin, ornate design. It’s ready to join your art collection at home.

The color might differ from your display. I tried my best to get them to look similar but there might be some differences. Also, the images are protected so textures might look rougher than they really are.

Note about shipping

I’m located in the USA. Please be aware that shipping this piece internationally will be subject to custom fees and the customer will be responsible for.

Due to the holiday season, I won’t be able to ship anything from December 14th until January 10th. Please, keep this in mind! Thank you so much for your understanding.

If you’re interested, you can find prints of this piece and past EDO pieces on my website.

Thank you so much!

$2,800 $2,800