The latest iteration of House of Tarot, a renowned immersive art experience in Detroit, recently took place at the Boyer Campbell Building. The show, centered around healing and Brigid, the queer Celtic goddess of fire, poetry, and wisdom, offered a unique blend of sensory and emotional experiences.
Thirteen artists were invited to interpret cards from the Minor Arcana, weaving their works into an intricate tapestry that showcased the theme of "healing" in distinct ways. Each room at the exhibition was tailored to evoke a particular atmosphere, ranging from serene spaces adorned with paintings to more abstract environments that felt like rituals.
The show's connection to Imbolc Detroit, a citywide festival rooted in ritual and collective creativity, added an extra layer of depth to the experience. For those familiar with the Celtic holiday, which marks the halfway point between Winter Solstice and Spring Equinox, the exhibition was both a celebration and a reflection on the themes of growth, renewal, and healing.
While some visitors may find this iteration slightly less impactful than its predecessor, House of Tarot remains one of the most compelling immersive art experiences in Detroit. A live music performance that took place during the visit added to the atmosphere, creating a sense of intentionality and meditation.
One room stood out for its striking presence: Melissa Webb's King of Cups installation. Instead of inviting viewers into the space, the work is viewed through a large window, where three individuals are physically immersed in the fibers and fabric. This unique approach allowed visitors to become part of the piece, rather than simply observing or creating it.
The room also featured an artist statement that echoed Webb's interpretation of the King of Cups card: "This is the elder who knows how to hold storms because they have watched seasons turn without stopping them." The installation served as a testament to unconditional presence and love that does not rush growth nor demand healing on a schedule. It was a warm, slow, and unforced experience that lingered with visitors long after their departure.
Another notable piece was Jesse Kassel's Nine of Pentacles room, which initially appears disorienting. The artist intentionally left room for interpretation, allowing visitors to consider the meaning behind this installation as either an embodiment of abundance and luxury or a reflection on insecurity through material possessions. Tarot cards shift in meaning depending on whether they're upright or reversed, and Kassel's work masterfully held both interpretations at once.
Immersive exhibitions like House of Tarot continue to captivate audiences by offering a more intimate connection with the art itself. While this iteration may not have reached the same level of resonance as its predecessor, it remains an essential experience for fans of immersive art in Detroit. As the show evolves through new card interpretations and artists willing to take risks, one thing is certain: House of Tarot will continue to push boundaries and inspire those who enter its spaces.
Thirteen artists were invited to interpret cards from the Minor Arcana, weaving their works into an intricate tapestry that showcased the theme of "healing" in distinct ways. Each room at the exhibition was tailored to evoke a particular atmosphere, ranging from serene spaces adorned with paintings to more abstract environments that felt like rituals.
The show's connection to Imbolc Detroit, a citywide festival rooted in ritual and collective creativity, added an extra layer of depth to the experience. For those familiar with the Celtic holiday, which marks the halfway point between Winter Solstice and Spring Equinox, the exhibition was both a celebration and a reflection on the themes of growth, renewal, and healing.
While some visitors may find this iteration slightly less impactful than its predecessor, House of Tarot remains one of the most compelling immersive art experiences in Detroit. A live music performance that took place during the visit added to the atmosphere, creating a sense of intentionality and meditation.
One room stood out for its striking presence: Melissa Webb's King of Cups installation. Instead of inviting viewers into the space, the work is viewed through a large window, where three individuals are physically immersed in the fibers and fabric. This unique approach allowed visitors to become part of the piece, rather than simply observing or creating it.
The room also featured an artist statement that echoed Webb's interpretation of the King of Cups card: "This is the elder who knows how to hold storms because they have watched seasons turn without stopping them." The installation served as a testament to unconditional presence and love that does not rush growth nor demand healing on a schedule. It was a warm, slow, and unforced experience that lingered with visitors long after their departure.
Another notable piece was Jesse Kassel's Nine of Pentacles room, which initially appears disorienting. The artist intentionally left room for interpretation, allowing visitors to consider the meaning behind this installation as either an embodiment of abundance and luxury or a reflection on insecurity through material possessions. Tarot cards shift in meaning depending on whether they're upright or reversed, and Kassel's work masterfully held both interpretations at once.
Immersive exhibitions like House of Tarot continue to captivate audiences by offering a more intimate connection with the art itself. While this iteration may not have reached the same level of resonance as its predecessor, it remains an essential experience for fans of immersive art in Detroit. As the show evolves through new card interpretations and artists willing to take risks, one thing is certain: House of Tarot will continue to push boundaries and inspire those who enter its spaces.