New Exhibition Reimagines Tarot Cards With Modern Twist

A new Artists on View exhibition explores the symbolism of traditional tarot cards through a collection of modern artworks.

Nineteen artists with different art practices have come together for Arcana, a free exhibition at Dudley House, View Street.

Each artist reimagines one or more of the 22 Major Arcana cards, transforming traditional designs into evolving modern artworks inspired by mythology, folklore, and human emotions.

The exhibition includes a wide range of art forms, such as illustrations, printmaking, digital art, and mixed media. The styles vary from whimsical and playful to dark and gothic.

Together, the artworks create a rich visual story. Visitors to the exhibitions are invited to feel as though they are stepping inside a living tarot deck where every image tells a story and every card reveals a new idea or perspective.

Tarot card images have long fascinated artists and storytellers for centuries. Famous symbols like Fool’s journey, the Wheel of Fortune, the Tower’s collapse, and the Star’s quiet promise come from old European myths and stories. They are still meaningful today, as they reflect common human experiences like change, fate, strength, and hope.

Exhibition curator Dale Harris said Arcana builds on the rich history of tarot while giving it a fresh, modern twist.

“By blending mysticism, symbolism and contemporary art practices, the exhibition reimagines tarot as a living, evolving art form while pushing beyond tradition. Audiences are invited to find their own personal meaning and reflection within each of the artworks,” Dale said.

“Arcana brings together a range of artists with different disciplines to explore a unifying theme. I hope audiences will be engaged to discover personal meaning, storytelling, and symbolism through the extraordinary visual art collection.

“Ultimately, Arcana seeks to connect visitors with centuries-old tradition while presenting fresh, contemporary interpretations that feel relevant today.”

Artists who contributed to Arcana include Dale Harris, Emily Fisher, Cheryl Bailey, Amy Woodward, Amy Bailey, Leah Hartley, Stephen Stanley, Sara McQueenie, Mr. Dimples, Ivan Sun, Ella Bailey, Narsha Kang, Chris Duffy – HaHo Art, Kate Smith, Rhayven Jane, Bridie O’Toole, Kara Vena Cava, JoBird Art, Peta Tron.

Arcana is open daily from 10am to 5pm from Thursday June 11 to Tuesday June 23. An official opening is on Saturday June 13 at 2pm and all are welcome to attend.

This exhibition complements the Artist Market on View Street this Saturday June 13, featuring live demonstrations, talks and stalls from 10am to 2pm with Eat.Drink.Art program participants.

Artists on View is a City of Greater Bendigo program to support local artists presenting new work at Dudley House.