Tarot Tombstones

Wald Amberstone said, ” This universe speaks directly, even sings, to poets, primitives, mystics and children, and through Tarot, everyone can hear its song.”

For the 2017 Tombstone Swap at Retro Cafe Art Gallery, I decided to make a series of tombstones based on the art and idea of the story-telling cards, The Tarot. This swap has become tradition at our house. My 12 year old daughter joins in and we have a blast creating together- not only the tombstones but the memories too! We’re both creating based on games this year. I hope whoever gets these enjoys them as much as I enjoyed creating them! Here’s a quick break down on how they were made:

Step one: I typically start projects with an idea sketch or at least a few brainstorming notes. The tombstones are perfect for this because you can lay them down and trace the shapes… then sketch your ideas to scale! Sometimes, I do vary from the sketches a little but I find this a great way to work out my ideas.

Step two: Paint the tombstones a neutral tan color. Then stamp some background imagery onto the paint. This just gives an extra visual layer- I’m all about some layers!

Step three: Add your clay layer. I sculpt directly onto the masonite tombstones (using a bit of Liquid Sculpey to adhere it) then bake according to manufacturer instructions.

Step four: Paint with craft acrylics.

Here’s a few photos of the individual tombstones.

Thanks for looking!! Hope you’ve enjoyed my tutorial!

Materials list: ( link for the tombstones and swap details are provided in the text)
Gothic Tombstone bases (set VI)
Sculpey clay/ Liquid Sculpey
Deco Art acrylics paints
rubber stamps ( for background)
brown or black ink pads