All 72 cards from the deck. Courtesy of X Artist Books and Alexandra Grant.
As an artist and oracle deck enthusiast, I've had the incredible opportunity to contribute to and explore one of the most unique decks I've ever encountered: the Itinéraires Fantômes Oracle Deck. Created by Alexandra Grant in collaboration with Hélène Cixous, this deck is a true masterpiece that bridges the worlds of art, literature, and divination.
The Genesis of Itinéraires Fantômes
The Itinéraires Fantômes deck is more than just a set of oracle cards; it's a celebration of Hélène Cixous's work and a companion to an art exhibition of the same name. Curated by Marion Vasseur Raluy and Ana Iwataki, the exhibition runs from June 21, 2024, to January 19, 2025, at the CAPC Musée d'art Contemporain de Bordeaux.
Courtesy of X Artist Books and Alexandra Grant.
Inside the Box
The deck consists of 72 beautifully designed cards, each measuring 5.1 x 3.5 inches (13 x 9 cm). These cards are housed in a sturdy cardboard box, measuring 7.9 x 6.3 x 2 inches (20 x 16 x 5 cm). Accompanying the cards is a thoughtfully crafted bilingual booklet in English and French, sized at 6.3 x 4.7 inches (16 x 12 cm).
Courtesy of X Artist Books and Alexandra Grant.
A Diverse Artistic Collaboration
What sets this deck apart is its incredible roster of contributors. Alongside Alexandra Grant and her partner Keanu Reeves, the deck features work from a diverse array of renowned artists and writers. From historical figures like Victor Hugo and Franz Kafka to contemporary artists such as Jeffrey Gibson, Johanna Hedva, and Louise Bourgeois, each card is a unique creation reflecting a variety of voices and styles.
The Six Categories
The 72 cards are divided into six intriguing categories:
1. Those from Below
2. Those from Above
3. Those Who Fly/Steal
4. Portals
5. Messages and Symbols
6. Superpowers
These categories add depth and structure to readings, allowing for rich interpretations and insights. Each card was created as a brand new artwork by an artist and/or curated from a selection of existing artwork. This gives the deck an eclectic yet harmonious composition. On the backside of each card is a unique drawing done in gold against a white background. When brought together these different drawings create a map designed by Alexandra Grant.
L'étranger Redoutable and "La Non-Forme, both 2024. Courtesy of Edgar Fabián Frías
My Contribution
As one of the contributors, I had the honor of creating two cards for this deck: "L'étranger Redoutable" (The Formidable Stranger) and "La Non-Forme" (The Non-Form). The creative process was both challenging and rewarding, as I sought to capture the essence of these concepts in visual form.
Upcoming Launch Event
For those eager to experience the deck firsthand, there's an exciting launch event coming up:
Date: Saturday, August 24 at 7 PM
Location: Philosophical Research Society, Los Angeles
RSVP: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/artist-talk-itineraires-fantomes-oracle-deck-launch-tickets-942419942417
Final Reflections
The Itinéraires Fantômes Oracle Deck is more than just a divination tool; it's a journey through art, literature, and the collective unconscious. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a seasoned oracle reader, or simply curious about unique creative projects, this deck offers something truly special.
To learn more about the deck or to purchase your own copy, visit X Artists Books
https://www.xartistsbooks.com/books/itineraires-fantomes-oracle-deck
And if you're interested in seeing more of my work, you can find me at:
https://bio.site/edgarfabianfrias
Also, to hear more thoughts of mine about this deck, see an unboxing, and flip through of all the cards, as well as learn who the artists that created are, watch this video below.
Have you encountered any oracle decks that have left a lasting impression on you?
Share your experiences in the comments below!