49. Pamela Coleman-Smith: The Tarot Card Creator

Keywords

Pamela Coleman Smith, tarot, mysticism, cultural appropriation, art history, spirituality, women in art, Golden Dawn, suffragette, identity


Summary

This conversation delves into the life and legacy of Pamela Coleman Smith, an artist and mystic known for her work on the tarot deck that bears her name. The discussion explores her early life, artistic beginnings, and the influences that shaped her work, including her connections to mysticism and cultural appropriation. The hosts reflect on her theatrical career, her involvement with the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, and the impact of her art on contemporary spirituality. The conversation concludes with reflections on her recognition and the complexities of her legacy in the art world.


Takeaways

Pamela Coleman Smith was a multifaceted artist and mystic.
Her life spanned significant historical events, including two world wars.
She was influenced by both Swedenborgianism and Afro-Caribbean folklore.
Smith's work included illustrations for over 20 books and theater designs.
She created the most popular tarot deck in the world, yet received no credit.
Her artistic style was influenced by the British Arts and Crafts Movement.
Smith's life reflects themes of identity, belonging, and appropriation.
She was involved in the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn but left due to its demands.
Her later life included a shift towards Catholicism and community service.
Smith's legacy is increasingly recognized, with calls to credit her in the tarot community.


Titles

The Mystical Life of Pamela Coleman Smith
Art, Identity, and the Tarot: A Deep Dive


Sound bites

"This is a really interesting story."
"She had such a diverse life."
"It's really uncomfortable."


Chapters

00:00 New Year Reflections and Personal Updates
03:05 Introducing Pamela Coleman Smith
05:54 Early Life and Artistic Beginnings
08:59 Theatrical Career and Spiritual Influences
12:06 Exploring Mysticism and Cultural Appropriation
15:00 The Golden Dawn and Artistic Expression
17:58 The Tarot Deck and Its Legacy
20:56 Later Life and Continued Influence
34:02 Reflections on Recognition and Legacy