Thelma Appel, The Empress, 2010

This work is part of Thelma Appel's original series of large paintings based upon the Major Arcana of the Tarot Deck, representing archetypes of human experience and characters. Whereas "The Empress" in the traditional Rider-Waite tarot deck depicts a pregnant woman, Appel's "Empress" is a true earth mother, surrounded by children of different races, amidst a plush, abundant, landscape. It is Appel's attention to detail that brings forth the subtle meanings of the cards as a powerful form of divination.

Combining her formal background in illustration, abstraction, landscape, figuration, and her interest in mysticism, spirituality and Kabbalah - Appel creates a uniquely original and distinctive interpretation of the ages old Tarot deck.

Signed, dated and titled on the verso of the canvas