Hyperallergic presents a unique blend of tarot and astrology in its tarotscope series, offering readings for its readers alongside cards for major astrological signs, categorized by elemental affiliations. Developed by AX Mina, a Hyperallergic contributor and Five and Nine podcast producer, these tarotscopes focus on the arts and creative practices, aligning with each solstice and equinox to celebrate seasonal changes.
During the Juneteenth and Summer Solstice weekend, I attended the Mermaid Parade at Coney Island, where people gathered to embrace mermaid-themed creativity. A highlight was witnessing the ‘Keith Herrings,’ who paraded in fish costumes inspired by the renowned street artist. This season’s tarotscope used the Mixed Signals Tarot, crafted by artist M Eilo on the Moonlight platform, read on the summer solstice’s longest day.
For this reading, the ‘Getting Unstuck’ spread was selected from Moonlight’s offerings, addressing a common stagnation among creative peers. The first card drawn, the Blocker, signifies challenges faced by the Hyperallergic community. The Spark card, reminiscent of joyful moments like the Keith Herrings, symbolizes the rejuvenating power of art through tough times.
In this collective tarot reading, the Blocker is represented by The Star, which M Eilo beautifully illustrates as the expansive Milky Way. This card evokes mystery and the unknown, encouraging a release from certainty. The Spark, the Seven of Swords, is depicted as a release and reconfiguration of creative tools, suggesting a temporary departure from routine practices to embrace new perspectives.
Hyperallergic readers are encouraged to welcome mystery and let go of predictability, opening themselves to new ways of being. Each zodiac element—Fire, Earth, Air, and Water—receives additional guidance with a Flow card. These cards indicate when a new flow state is achieved, offering an artistic exploration during the summer.
