Creative card spread

how I used my oracle cards to create an oil painintg!

In the guidebook for the Cowgirls and Aliens Oracle, there is a card spread that shows you how to use the cards as inspiration for your next project. You can use them as a springboard for new ideas. Follow along and see how I used a creative spread to create an oil painting!

I sat somewhere peaceful where I wouldn’t be disturbed, made myself comfy and took a deep breath. I got out some paper, a pencil and my oracle cards. I then pulled out three random cards and placed them in front of me.

I wrote down any words that came to mind about the cards. I tried to keep my mind open and didn’t edit or filter anything. I soon had a full page of stream-of-consciousness words inspired by the three cards.

As words and ideas came into my head, I started sketching some images that came to mind, using the words as inspiration. I wanted to create something that told a story. The three cards I pulled were all about endings and overcoming failure so I came up with the image of a sad cowgirl sitting by her campfire. I wanted to capture the feeling of being at the lowest point of your journey, and wanting to give up.

I brought by sketches into Procreate and worked on my drawing, trying to get the composition and the details right. I then transferred the drawing up onto a large 30 x 40 inch canvas and started painting.

After many hours and layers of oil paint, I finished my painting, all inspired by three oracle cards! 

Now it’s your turn! Whatever your creative thing is, painting, writing, sculpture, poetry…try using the cards to develop your next idea. I would love to see what you come up with, so please tag me in your creations! 

@harlequinspaceopera