Amara Eke: Everyday I’m Shuffling
September 3 - 26, 2026
First Thursday Art Walk - Thursday September 3rd, 5-8pm
Artist Statement
I developed a tarot deck I originally created as part of my senior thesis while completing my BFA at Penn State University in 2021. This was a deeply research-intensive endeavor in which I sought to honor the traditional art and symbolism of tarot, referencing the classic Thoth and Rider-Waite decks while adding my own creative interpretation to the visuals. Although I completed all 78 cards for the deck, I was never able to bring it in front of a live audience because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The driving purpose behind the creation of this tarot deck is to introduce greater diversity and inclusion into the realm of contemporary spirituality. I intentionally center Black and queer individuals as the primary subjects of the cards, offering representations that reflect a broader spectrum of identities and experiences. As interest in “new-age” spirituality, tarot, and astrology continues to rise, I’ve observed how the associated imagery often remains overwhelmingly whitewashed and narrow in scope. This lack of representation within spiritual and mystical art is something I hope to challenge and change.
Racial representation in visual art—particularly art that connects with the spiritual realm—is a deeply personal priority for me. I am interested in how we can feel spiritually empowered through imagery that affirms and uplifts our identities. Historically, Black people were largely excluded from the Western art canon or relegated to minor, often dehumanizing roles like slaves, soldiers, or demons rather than as mystics, angels, or divine figures.
My goal is to empower and excite every viewer to explore their past, present, and future with a newfound confidence, authenticity, and clarity.