Tarot and the Art of Creativity

“Each one of us, we’re a constant radio station communicating and receiving. It’s just that we’re not taught how to read, how to interpret the energies and intuitions we pick up. The Tarot card is a really important component in this… " Sir Ben Okri

Tarot cards are rich in visual symbolism and the stories they tell help people make sense of the ups and downs of human experience. They’ve been around for hundreds of years - from simple card games to fortune-telling, divination tools, the occult and intuitive storytelling.

In this episode of Illuminated we join four artists at their private readings to hear how Tarot is part of their creative practice.

The Queen of Wands: Comedian and writer Jessica Knappett drives to Harrogate to meet Carla Greenwood who has news of an ominous block in her work.

Five of Coins: Musician, writer and actress Lola Kirke is about to go on stage in Manchester. Jen Cownie asks her if the Five of Coins card tells a story about feeling like an outsider.

Madame Sosostris: Writer Sir Ben Okri has borrowed ‘the wisest women in Europe’ as a character for his latest novel. Where did she come from?

Pentacles: Poet and generative intelligence designer Adam Martin is embarking on a new project. Is he on the right path?

With Jen Cownie, Carla Greenwood, Lola Kirke, Jessica Knappett, Adam Martin, Sir Ben Okri and Diane Whiteley.

Produced by Alexandra Quinn
Executive Producer: Kris Dyer
Sound Mix by Ross Burman

A Rakkit production for BBC Radio 4