Check Out Mary Evans’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mary Evans

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
In October 2014, I self-published my first tarot deck at a time when self-published art decks were rare. The only two decks I had encountered, which inspired my first decks were The Wild Unknown by Kim Krans and The Collective Tarot created by a collective of 25 artists. Despite studying tarot and divination for several years, I struggled to find a deck that resonated with me. Most decks required extensive decoding, and I longed for something simple, bold, and easy to read. Applying my naive, whimsical line work, I crafted a deck rooted in Pamela Coleman Smith’s illustrations for the Ryder Waite Tarot Deck, aiming for quick, clear symbolism. It’s so wild to see how many decks are on the market now that use this style and approach!

Over the years, I’ve created and published seven tarot and oracle card decks, comprising over 400 original paintings, drawings, and collages. These creations were my primary focus for half a decade.

In 2016, I moved to Joshua Tree, where my artistic practice began to expand into 3-D and digital media. I started experimenting with large-scale sculptures and experimental video media, driven by a desire to expand the edges of my artistic practice. Seeking mentorship for this new chapter, I relocated to Oregon to study interdisciplinary arts at the University of Oregon. My graduate program was challenging but rewarding, as I found the guidance I was looking for. Working closely with artists Stacy Jo Scott, Rick Silva, and Jovencio De La Paz profoundly influenced my approach to art. Their mentorship has been instrumental in shaping my current practice, enabling me to evolve and refine my artistic vision.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There have been many waves of challenges and growing pains along the way. I believe what is most important for me in this lifetime is the devotion and expansion of my art. I would do almost anything to bend to my work. I think life is rather short and there is a conversation I am having with my art. It’s like wanting to stay up all night and talk to someone who fascinates you. I want to get as far, wide, and deep with my work as I can. If I could have a few more lifetimes to do that, I’d take them.
All that to say. Yes, there have been hurdles but I’ll take the good with the bad.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a practicing artist and tarot reader. I create paintings, sculptures, and experimental videos. I specialize in creating tarot and oracle cards that can be used for personal spiritual practices and self-reflection. My work is known for its playful, childlike, and sometimes macabre stylings and the personal connection it fosters with those who use my cards. I am most proud of the feedback I receive from people who use my cards and share how they have become a part of their spiritual journeys and daily rituals.
I don’t think I am particularly set apart from others. I think all artistic practices are particularly nuanced and unique. That’s what I love the most about the arts community, connecting with the intricacies and synchronicities of others’ art practices. I tend to concentrate on showing up as authentically and earnestly to my practice as I can. I try to release the fixation on my art being “good”, “beautiful”, or “refined”. I try to have patience and acceptance with my work. And I try to avoid comparing or looking for inspiration from my peers and instead look toward my historical mentors.

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
I’d say embrace your “ugly” works. Allow yourself to be messy. Tease out the uncomfortable in your work. It’s hard to make a living as an artist and I think because of that there is pressure to make things that sell and that are likable. The danger in that is missing yourself or worse, working in imitation. I truly believe that there is a language of authenticity that is indescribable and unspeakable but that we can all sense. If you can reach that pure channel, people can feel it. It can be vulnerable to release that raw sense of self. Many people who do are first met with criticism. It can be difficult to decipher what is a valid critique and what is a knee-jerk reaction to something that hasn’t been done before.
I recently became an aunt. When I think about my baby niece, my wish for her is to fully embrace and express herself in any area of study or focus that she chooses. There may not always be a space carved out ready and waiting for you. There is a heavy heart-pounding palm-sweating that happens in the leap into the unknown. I hope for her that she will take leaps.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.spirit-speak.com
• Instagram: @m.a.r.y.e.v.a.n.s
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@maryevans8087