Ipsos Arcanum Tarot - Rider-Waite-Smith with inclusive imagery
Many tarot decks claim to be 'for everyone'. This deck makes that promise actual. Ipsos Malafaya drew all 78 cards with explicit attention to representation: different bodies, skin tones, gender expressions and body language that fall outside the usual RWS picture.
At the same time, the deck follows the traditional Rider-Waite-Smith structure. The Court cards, Major Arcana and numbered cards remain recognizable. The renewal lies in who you see on the cards, not in the system itself.
What you see on the cards
The style is contemporary and expressive. Bright colours, emotional facial expressions and clear body language. Not idealized figures, but people who look like they exist.
The symbolism is extensive. Kabbalistic references, astrological correspondence markers and elemental colours are present without overloading the card. You can pick them up and read them straight away, or you can discover layers as you work with the deck longer.
Each card edge is finished with gold. That gives the deck visual cohesion and adds just enough shine to make it feel luxurious without becoming flashy.
How this deck works in practice
Because the imagery is so direct, you can draw an emotional line quickly. The faces tell a lot. That makes the deck suitable for shadow work and for readings where you recognize yourself in the cards.
It is also an RWS deck, so if you already work with this system you will recognize the structure immediately. If you are new, you can use any RWS guidebook or meaning list and place the images on the card straight away.
In your first reading, pay particular attention to the facial expressions. Ipsos Malafaya draws emotion in a way that is immediately felt, before you even name the card.
About Ipsos Malafaya
Ipsos Malafaya is a tarot reader, designer and queer neurodivergent artist. You see her background reflected in the way she layers symbolism: non-linear, detailed, with much attention to patterns and small repetitions that only become apparent on repeated viewing.
She designed this deck from a clear idea: tarot must be accessible to people who do not see themselves in traditional decks. That makes it a political deck without being loud.
Specifications
- Number of cards: 78
- System: Rider-Waite-Smith
- Language: English
- Card size: 70 x 120 mm
- Cardstock: 350 gsm
- Finish: Gold edges on all cards
- Extras: Velvet storage bag included
- Designer: Ipsos Malafaya
Questions we often get
Is this deck suitable for beginners?
Yes. It follows the Rider-Waite-Smith system, so you can use standard RWS guidebooks and meaning lists. The imagery is contemporary, but the structure is classic.
What is the difference between this deck and a traditional RWS deck?
The representation. You see different bodies, skin tones and gender expressions. The symbolism and the order of the cards remain the same. It is RWS, but with a contemporary cast.
