Hello, soul friends!
Today's review is covering a deck that caught my attention as soon as I saw it on Instagram. After checking out the owner's Instagram account, as I figured it would be something different than the other decks I own, so it would be a beautiful addition to my collection. I am eclectic and don't like to purchase similar decks. Plus, I love seeing other Indie decks, and checking them out!
I hope you enjoy my review and generous pictures!
Oracle of Echoes
I purchased this deck from the Etsy shop of the creator. As stated above after seeing a few posts on Instagram showing these gorgeous cards, I knew that I wanted to get my own. I found it to be an intriguing and interesting deck. I love the striking artwork, and also the fact that it is an independently published deck.
The Oracle of Echoes Etsy listing description:
The Oracle Of Echoes is a vivid 50-card deck divination system, that explores the inner reflections of the human psych, delving into both light and dark aspects of life. Offering a unique magical entrance into the patterns of our soul, through beautiful intuitive illustrations full of color and symbolism.
The deck comes with a custom designed tuck box and a free PDF guide upon purchase.
About the Creators
Ana Tourian is an Illustrator and Graphic Designer. She graduated with a BFA in Painting and Drawing from University of Utah and later pursued an MFA from Pratt institute in Communications Package Design.
In the past she worked as a Senior Art Director in NYC with a focus in pharmaceutical advertising with clients such as Roche, Merck, GlaxoSmithKline, and Bristol-Myers Squibb. She is the creator of Oracle Of Echoes that's due to come out in December, The Hidden Waters Tarot and Clair De Lune Lenormand. Currenly she is working on the creation of The Abyss Tarot.
She lives in New Jersey with her two lovely children and husband.
My Personal Review
This 50-card deck is meant to be used as an Oracle deck. I wasn't really aware of what to expect with this deck, so upon opening it up I was a bit surprised at the artwork and the details in each card. I loved the vibrant tones and contemporary artwork. It is breathtaking art piece, as I found a new layer of depth to each of the cards. There is a beautiful and ethereal aspect, flowing, and watery - subconscious action.
The artwork was something that had called me with this deck, as I stated above and why I was excited to get my hands on a set. It was variously different from anything else I have seen and I loved the unique approach to the whole deck. There is a bit of a dark and flowy vibe in some of the cards, but with a beautiful lens. It is modern and timeless. Ethereal and structured. It really is a gorgeous balance between light and shadow, even some of the "darker" cards are handled with care and executed beautifully. This deck has quickly become a favorite to use when I need some clarity within my own deep feelings, as I find it versatile and well-received by clients.
The cards have titles, so it helps if you can't readily identify a card by the imagery. There is a beautiful depth to the images that Ana came up with, and so many hidden details within the swirls and in the colors. So many layers and aspects that come up in each of the cards. They are an interesting interpretation of common themes. I like the complicated detail and images. I am blown away with her choices for some of the cards, as the images have a visceral quality. There is symbolism, but also a fresh perspective on common spiritual themes that many have interpreted over the years, and as an artistic deck, I appreciate the new way view of looking at these common themes. They are interpreted in such a fascinating way.
The card stock is not very thick, semi-matte finish, smooth to shuffle, and allows you get a nice bend without cracking the card stock. The finish really helps make the artwork truly stand out. They aren't gilded, so these shouldn't crack or flake with use and shuffling. A big plus! The size of the cards was an average tarot size. Not too large, and not too small. They shuffle very well, easily and smoothly without catching or scratching.
The backs of the cards have a wonderful art piece that allows you to pull reversed meanings, as well. A simple flower design with a black and red background.
The box is a simple tuck box which includes the information on using the Guidebook online. It is a simple box, which isn't my favorite for storing cards that I often use, since tuck boxes tend to wear down quite quickly with how I use them. The deck came out in 2016, and I have enjoyed using the deck with clients and with my own personal readings. I don't always reach for it, but I think it is a unique addition that allows people to connect in a new way.
The online Guidebook isn't my favorite, but I have seen this as a more intuitive used deck. For one to develop their own interpretations, and the artwork is so beautiful - whispy, ethereal, dark, and mysterious - that I can't really deduct points for the Guidebook not being as in-depth as an Alana Fairchild deck. Some decks are meant to help you develop your own interpretations and connect with your intuition. I find that this deck is one of those tools to use in order to connect more with you own inner voice.
Initially, I was a bit disappointed with the simpler Guidebook. But as I have worked with the deck for a bit now, I find that it is just an addition not the guideline. These are images that are meant to inspire connection to spirit. Plus, once I dove in more - I realized the Guidebook is quite well-appointed. Not too much and not lacking substance. It allows the tension of offering and devising your own specific meanings.
Overall, I think this was a beautifully executed deck.
My overall opinion is that this deck is a 4 star choice.
Artwork - 5 stars
Card stock - 4 stars
Ease - 4 stars
Guidebook - 3 stars
I hope that you enjoyed my deck review, and also enjoy other deck reviews that I add to this site. I have a passion for exploring new decks and also finding various ways of connecting to my intuition. I appreciate you checking out my site and taking the time to read my review.
Happy Reading!
