Personita

Personita – A Playful Journey through the World of Children and Young People

About this Deck

The Personita cards offer a vibrant, soulful invitation to explore the vast landscape of human experience through the eyes of the young. This deck is not a traditional tarot, but rather a bridge to the subconscious, designed to spark stories, foster empathy, and mirror the diversity of our global family. With its colorful portraits and evocative scenes, Personita creates an atmospheric space where imagination knows no bounds, making it a beloved tool for those who seek to understand the delicate nuances of relationships and self-expression.

Symbolism and Themes

At its heart, Personita is a celebration of both our unique differences and our shared humanity. The deck is divided into two distinct parts: 77 portrait cards depicting faces from all corners of the world, and 44 situation cards that illustrate the movements and interactions of life. Together, they form a "social map" of the soul. The themes revolve around cultural diversity, the complexity of family dynamics, and the universal emotions that connect us all, regardless of age or background. By pairing a face with a situation, users can unlock deep-seated associations and find new ways to communicate complex feelings.

The Creators

Ely Raman
Ely Raman (1930–2007) was a visionary Canadian artist and the founding father of the OH-card genre. He viewed playing cards as a unique medium for art—a "gallery in the hand"—that allowed for personal self-expression and interactive storytelling. His innovative spirit continues to inspire users to find their own truth through visual metaphors.

Marina Lukyanova
Marina Lukyanova is a gifted artist whose roots lie in the artistic traditions of St. Petersburg and the hauntingly beautiful landscapes of northern Russia. Her formal training and deep appreciation for natural beauty bring a soft, yet profound realism to the Personita illustrations, capturing the subtle emotions of her subjects with grace and sensitivity.

Practical Use

Personita is exceptionally versatile, making it an essential companion for educators, therapists, and families alike. Because the cards are image-based and associative, they bypass the analytical mind and speak directly to the heart. Use them in a group setting to facilitate dialogue about diversity, or in a private session to explore personal history and family roles. They are a powerful catalyst for storytelling, helping users to put words to feelings that are often hard to reach.

To gain a deeper perspective on a relationship, draw one Portrait card to represent yourself and one Situation card to represent the current dynamic. Observe how the expression on the face changes your perception of the action in the scene.

Features

• Number of cards: 121 (77 portraits and 44 situation cards)
• Language: German (The cards are visual; instructions are in German)
• ISBN: 9783925938965
• Publisher: OH Publishing
• Weight: 300 g
• Dimensions: 63 x 88 mm (Box size: 100 x 150 x 40 mm)

Expert FAQ

Do I need to know a specific system to use these cards?
Not at all. Unlike Tarot or Lenormand, Personita is an associative deck. It relies on your personal intuition and the stories that the images evoke in the moment. There are no "right" or "wrong" meanings.

How do the Portrait and Situation cards work together?
The Portrait cards represent the "who," and the Situation cards represent the "what." By combining them, you can create complex scenarios that reflect real-life challenges or internal emotional states, making them perfect for role-playing and therapeutic work.

Is this deck suitable for work with children?
Yes, it is specifically designed to be accessible to children and young people. The imagery is relatable and engaging, helping younger users express themselves in a safe, creative, and playful manner.