Anima are Tulisan limited edition playing cards illustrated by Melissa Sunjaya and a Swiss Canadian Artist, Sébastien Théraulaz. The project has been on the works together through the internet and long distant communications since last December 2013. The four suits correspond to the four classical elements are Air (Hearts), Fire (Spades), Water (Clubs), and Earth (Diamonds). Additionally the deck features two jokers depicted by the artists’ Oracle of the Sacred Catfish and two special Anima cards portrayed by their Supreme Hippocampus. This subconscious knowledge creates balance and provides nourishment to the soul. According to Carl Jung, the founder of analytical psychology, the Anima is an archetype which epitomizes our truest self and is the ultimate source of our creativity. Below are the explanations for each type of cards.
Terra (Earth) as the Confederation of Rhapsodic Voyagers
The suit of black diamonds embodies the first classical element of earth. It is the sacred soil which holds and nourishes the seeds and roots of many organisms. In the ANIMAdeck, Terra is defended by a confederation of adventurous seals and walruses. They are an armada of rhapsodic voyagers who see change as a journey to a better state. The Queen Seal is a wild seductress, while the Jack Walrus is a dauntless explorer. The King Walrus is regarded as a true maestro due to his extraordinary artisanal abilities.
Aqua (Water) as The Legacy of Magical Believers
The suit of indigo clubs represents the second classical element of water. This aquatic territory is inhabited by a legion of magical frogs who have the power to see into the future. Their sixth sense is a gift passed down through the generations. These clairvoyant amphibians dwell in the realm of dreams and imagination. The Queen Frog spends her days interpreting her visions. The Jack Frog is a trickster who uses illusions to obscure the truth. The King Frog has the ability to manifest his premonitions into reality.
Aer (Air) as The Guild of Transcendental Alchemists
The suit of scarlet hearts symbolizes the third classical element of air. The atmospheres of day and night are guarded by a guild of wise owls who specialize in the study of transcendental alchemy. Their philosophy centers on using one’s intuition to reach a heightened state of awareness. The Queen Owl inspires unconditional love in all who meet her. The Jack Owl is profoundly wise. The King Owl possesses powerful metaphysical skills and has the ability to liberate the minds of others from fear, worry, and weakness.
Ignis (Fire) as The Empire of Founders
The suit of blazing spades portrays the fourth classical element of fire. In the ANIMA deck this celestial flame is protected by an empire of vigilant and trustworthy lynx. Their collective ambition is to create a balance that protects their ever-evolving civilization. The Queen Lynx upholds justice. The Jack Lynx controls the progression of society. The King Lynx is a strong ruler who empowers his citizens.