Reviewed by Katrina Rasbold
When we think of “borderlands,” we often think of political lines or separation. The Borderlands Tarot dares to reimagine this space as a lush, magical point of convergence—a place where ecosystems, cultures, and spirits bleed into one another to create something entirely new.
Created by artist and environmental studies professor Enid Baxter Ryce in collaboration with filmmaker Luis Cámara, this deck is a stunning, bilingual love letter to the US-Mexico border. It is not just a tool for divination; it is a field guide to the soul of the desert.
The artwork in this deck is nothing short of evocative. Moving away from the rigid iconography of traditional Rider-Waite-Smith decks, Ryce employs a hand-painted, watercolor style that feels organic and alive. The palette expresses cool desert tones—sage greens, dusty ochres, and twilight purples—punctuated by the vibrant colors of local flora.
Instead of medieval courts, you are greeted by the creatures that roam the physical borderlands. The archetypes are interpreted through the lens of the natural world, grounding your readings in the quiet wisdom of the earth.
The lovey color guidebook is nothing short of a bilingual triumph, featuring English on one side and Spanish on the reverse.
One of the most standout features of this set is its inclusivity. It effectively bridges the linguistic gap often found in tarot communities, making it a perfect gift for Spanish speakers, language learners, or anyone who values cross-cultural connection.
The deck itself has a liminal, healing vibe. There is a gentle, haunting quality to the images. It excels at shadow work as it explores the in-between spaces of our lives. Just as the borderlands are a mix of tension and beauty, this deck helps you navigate the transitional phases of your life. It doesn’t shout; it whispers. It asks you to look at the barriers you’ve built and find the wildflowers growing in the cracks.
Because this project blazes its own trail through the Tarot standards of symbolism and evocative graphics, it is perfect for those who find traditional tarot imagery too stark or intimidating.
The Borderlands Tarot is a bouquet of colorful, ecological magic. It reminds us that borders are not just walls; permeable membranes where life thrives in unexpected ways. If you are looking for a deck that feels like a walk through the desert at dusk—quiet, mysterious, and profoundly beautiful—this is the one.
Publisher Link to Purchase: Hachette Book Group / RP Studio – The Borderlands Tarot
Katrina Rasbold is a professional Witch, published author, priestess, and editor of Green Egg Magazine. She and her husband, Eric, are the creators of the CUSP spiritual path and owners of Crossroads Occult. You can reach her and access her Patreon with deeper classes and mentorship through www.katrinarasbold.com.
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