The oracle deck we’re looking at today is wonderful, but also prompted some design questions on my part. Let’s look at the “Soul Helper Oracle” by Christine Arana Fader and illustrated by Elena Dudina. If Fader’s name sounds familiar it’s because you’ve seen it before on The Magical Buffet when I held “The Battle of the Dragon Oracle Decks.” She was behind the “Dragon Wisdom” deck that was featured in that article. It was why I wanted to take a peek at Fader’s latest work with a different artist.
The illustrations for the “Soul Helper Oracle” are enchanting. I was unfamiliar with artist Elena Dudina but her rendering of environments is magical. Normally, I’m more drawn to art where a person is the centerpiece. It’s rare that my favorite cards in a deck are ones where the people are just a small part of the whole.
The deck itself is 43 cards and the guidebook offers a 21-day cycle of working with the theme of a card to explore yourself. Each card has four companions to support your work with the message of each card: a crystal, a spirit animal, a number, and a plant essence. I love how the deck is geared towards self-discovery and that Fader offers ideas to support your work. The only question I have, is with such clear ideas in mind, and a capable illustrator rendering the cards, couldn’t the crystal, spirit animal, number, and plant be incorporated into the art of each card? (Each card has a number, some have the animal, some have crystal, and some have the plant.) As it is, you need to always refer to the guidebook to see those.
Aside from that, the “Soul Helper Oracle” is a great deck for anyone looking for an oracle with beautiful artwork and is geared for exploration of the self.
You can learn more here.
Interested in getting your own copy of the “Soul Helper Oracle?” Well, I have great news for you! Inner Traditions accidentally sent me two copies of the deck, so I’m giving one away! As per usual, I’ll be using Rafflecopter for the giveaway. Residents of the United States that are 18 years of age or older can enter. Giveaway ends at 11:59pm on 04/29/2022.
Do you enjoy The Magical Buffet? Considering supporting The Magical Buffet on Patreon! For only $5 a month you’ll receive monthly tarot/oracle forecasts, classes, and behind the scenes updates! Https://www.patreon.com/magicalbuffet