2021: The Birth of Pentagram Publishing
The year 2021 marked the founding of Pentagram Publishing. The first artists to join the newly established publishing house were Jester and Michelle Tarnapovich from Ukraine.
Muladhara Tarot by Jester
The Muladhara Tarot was the first deck published by Pentagram Publishing. “Muladhara” refers to the root chakra — the foundational and lowest of the seven energy centers. This deck represents a journey of growth from physicality and desire to spiritual elevation and expanded consciousness. The midpoint of this transformation is symbolized by the Ace cards, where human figures are depicted in yogic asanas.
Muladhara Tarot is a vivid reflection of base human passions — a raw and unapologetic exploration of primal desires. It may well be one of the most profound and daring erotic tarot decks ever created.
Pin-Up Tarot by Michelle Tarnapovich
This deck features curvaceous beauties in a classic pin-up style — a genre that, while nearly forgotten today, flourished in the 1960s. The cards can be interpreted using the traditional system of A. E. Waite. Many familiar characters, symbols, and events from the Waite Tarot are recognizable here.
Uniquely, the deck was created entirely with watercolor, without any digital graphics. Some suits take creative liberties: wands may be replaced by cigarette holders, and swords by elegant fans.
Sea Witch Tarot by Mishel Tarnopovich
The wise Sea Witch is inspired by the character from Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale. In the original, she rescued the Little Mermaid and warned her of the dangers ahead. In this deck, the Sea Witch has returned — reborn and come ashore.
Now blind on land and concealing her sea-worn hair, she remains all-knowing… perhaps even more so than before. The deck weaves mysticism, femininity, and ancient wisdom into an unforgettable interpretation.
Post-Mondrian Tarot by Mishel Tarnopovich
Dutch painter Piet Mondrian (1872–1944) was a pioneer of abstract art, renowned for his iconic compositions featuring rectangles in red, blue, yellow, and white, outlined by bold black lines. Mondrian advocated for non-figurative art — rejecting realistic representation in favor of pure abstraction.
In the Post-Mondrian Tarot, his signature geometric style is layered with floral elements, human figures, and other shapes. Characters’ faces are intentionally simplified, directing attention away from detail and toward the overall composition. Each suit blends lines and forms uniquely, giving every card a distinct visual rhythm.
Despite its avant-garde aesthetic, observant viewers will notice familiar symbols from the Waite Tarot: the Hermit’s lantern or the lightning-shaped pendant in the “Tower” card, for instance — subtle nods to tradition hidden within modern abstraction.
