Illustration
Deck of Duality
The world is full of dualities, life and death, light and dark, love and indifference. This project captures the dualities of the world into a functional card deck through high-contrast, gestalt-inspired illustrations. Function and beauty are combined in this artful card deck.
The Concept
Duality is all around us, existing in a dynamic balance. Purity versus contamination, death versus life, good versus evil; one does not exist without the other. The deck uses a monochromatic colour palette to capture life's many dualities.
Project Background
Playing cards were the first accessible material, as even those who were illiterate could use them. Many artists have explored playing card artistry since, including Salvadore Dali, who infused the cards he designed with his characteristic surreal style.
The Process
Gestalt principles were applied to imply shapes and relationships. For example, the king in his throne is not outlined, but his position is clear. Sun and moon motifs also play a key role, decorating the back of the deck, and using the idea of light and dark to reinforce the theme. The deck was conceptualized on paper, then designed in Adobe Illustrator.
Results
Each facing card represents a different duality. For example, the Ace represents life and death, using an urn for the vase of flowers, that is broken and dying in the reflection. The entire deck was designed in black and white to further enhance the overall concept.
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