Fine Art

Unveiling the Itinéraires Fantômes Oracle Deck: A Journey Through Art and Divination /  by Edgar Fabián Frías

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!

Trans Hirstory In 99 Objects Book Release At The Hammer Museum /  by Edgar Fabián Frías

Zackary Drucker, Edgar Fabián Frías, Raquel Gutiérrez, Amos Mac, David Evans Frantz, Christina Linden, Chris Vargas at The Hammer Museum for the release of MOTHA’s (Museum of Transgender Hirstory and Art) book Trans Hirstory in 99 Objects

Last night was truly a profound and unforgettable experience. Being invited to participate in the iconic event for the release of Chris E. Vargas' Trans Hirstory in 99 Objects book at the Hammer Museum was an immense honor. To be surrounded by such trailblazing trans luminaries like Zackary Drucker, Raquel Gutiérrez, Amos Mac, Uri McMillan, Christina Linden, and David Evans Frantz was incredibly powerful.

The entire evening had an almost sacred energy, as if the spirits of our trans ancestors were present, guiding and blessing us. Chris' vision with the Museum of Trans Hirstory & Art (MOTHA) as a "forever under construction" container to celebrate trans hirstory and existence is so profoundly needed. In a world that has tried to erase and deny our narratives for centuries, MOTHA unapologetically inserts trans magic into the spaces where it is most vital.

I felt immensely grateful to Chris, Christina, and David for their years of labor in crafting this phenomenal book that weaves together our vast, complex trans lineages and legacies. The care and intentionality they brought in organizing this event was palpable.

Edgar offering a collective three card tarot reading using Rachel Pollack’s The Shining Tribe Tarot at The Hammer Museum. Photo taken by Maria McKee.

Being invited to share a personal three card tarot reading using The Shining Tribe Tarot deck, which was also my contribution to the book, allowed me to open up in unexpectedly emotional ways. Drawing The Strength card for our collective present moment imbued the space with a sense of fortitude and resilience that I know we'll all need as we navigate the continued challenges ahead.

Photo by Christina Linden.

Witnessing the outpouring of love, support, and celebration for this work and our community left me in awe. I hope the recording of this historic gathering is released publicly soon so that the ripples of trans brilliance and affirmation can extend even further. My heart is overflowing with gratitude to have been a part of such a sacred night amongst my siblings and ancestors.

You can watch the full video of this event below:

Interview with Nicole Ruggiero /  by Edgar Fabián Frías

Nicole Ruggiero in her New York home studio.

I had the pleasure of chatting with Nicole Ruggiero, a 3D artist based in New York. Nicole's work, inspired by video games and the internet, explores the intersection of technology and culture. During our conversation, Nicole discusses her journey into digital art, emphasizing the role of online forums in shaping her early experiences. We also explore her recent projects, including an animated series called Wish ‘N Wash, set in a late/post-capitalist society. Nicole shares her insights on the evolving role of digital and 3D art, noting a shift towards exploring nostalgia in various forms.

Click on this image for more information and to register.

Nicole and I are teaming up for the "Mixing Digital and Physical Worlds Workshop" on Dec 16, 2023, at 9 am PST / Noon ET. Join us for a 1.5-hour exploration of tools for 3D and 2D art, NFTs, and bridging the digital-physical gap. Engage in a discourse on web3, blockchain, and NFTs. This donation-based workshop ($11 - $33) ensures accessibility for all and nobody will be turned away for lack of funds.

You can learn more and register for it here.

My Interview with Nicole

1. Would you mind introducing yourself and letting us know a little bit about you and your work?

Hi I'm Nicole! I make 3D art about the internet and technology. I've always loved connecting with people through tech and I love adding a bit of warmth to something that can typically feel pretty cold.

2. Is there a reason you started to work digitally? What has that journey been like for you?
That's a good question. I actually started making digital art when I was about 12.  Before that I didn't really have anyone to show my work to, but being on online art forums made me feel pretty excited to share my work and get critique.

3. Is there a recent project you’ve done that you’re particularly proud of? If so, why?
Recently I've been working on this animated series with my partner, PLANTTDADDII, called the Wish ‘N Wash.  It's about a late/post-capitalist society, in a world where soap is scarce so people go to the local Wish N Wash laundromat and casino to win soap and wash their clothes.

I also have another WindowsXP themed piece that I’m coming out with sometime in January that I’m pretty excited about.

Collaboration with PLANTTDADDII, 2022, sold on SuperRare & 2/2 editioned prints.

4. Could you share your perspective on the role of digital and 3D art in the contemporary art world and how it has evolved over the years?
Originally I think 3D art was somewhat of a novelty. Now I'm seeing a lot of people making work with different forms of 3D nostalgia whether that be for video games or for previous digital eras. And, of course, 3D technology is heavily used in the metaverse or in digital worlds.

5. What advice would you give to emerging artists who are looking to make their mark in the world of 3D and digital art, considering your own journey and success in this field?
Right now, I feel like there are two pathways. The first pathway is to play into social media algorithms. The second pathway is getting into NFTs and related communities. The former is more client-focused, and the latter is more artwork-focused. I think a mixture of both is a good balance if you can manage it.

6. As a 3D visual artist, your work often blurs the line between the virtual and physical worlds. How do you see the future of art evolving in the context of emerging technologies, such as virtual and augmented reality?
I was just talking to my partner about this and we were talking about how one day we're going to have to explain to younger generations what a mouse cursor was LOL. I mean we're already seeing this, for example, with Meta and Ray-Ban’s collaboration on the smart glasses.

7. Collaboration and curation are part of your creative portfolio. Could you share an experience or project that challenged your artistic boundaries and pushed you to explore new creative territories?
I think the Wish ‘N Wash is something that has really pushed me. For the onset of this project I decided to sculpt and rig all of my characters from scratch and that's been a huge creative journey. First, I had to learn all the tools to do this and then I had to execute it. I'm still learning how to do all this. Sometimes it's discouraging but it’s also rewarding. I'm always getting better and trying my best.

8. What are some of the things that inspire you and/or your art?
I'm really inspired by computer user interfaces, video game characters, cities and neon lights, sci-fi, and good storytelling.

9. What do you hope people take away from connecting with your artwork?
I think ultimately I really want people to emotionally connect with my work.

10. How can people work with you? What’s the best way to learn more about your art?
I’m open for commissions and freelance starting in December! I have done a lot of album covers, music videos, character design, motion design, & 3D generalist work. People can find more about me on my website: https://www.nicoleruggiero.com or on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleruggiero or Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/_nicoleruggiero.

The best way to contact me is my email: nicole@nicoleruggiero.com