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Erika Karl Studio

@erikakarl.com
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Fine Art | Illustration | Design erikakarl.com

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Erika Karl Studio @erikakarl.com · 20/05/2026
Here's an update on a few things I've been working on. This is a series of watercolors I started this past winter. This is "Bercha's Gift." Her counterpart is Frau Berchta. Modern religion turned this goddess into... an evil witch, of course. Her alter ego, which I'll post next, is still available.
Frau Perchta’s Warning and Berchta’s Gift form a diptych exploring the mythic duality of the alpine goddess Berchta - dark and light, punishment and grace. Painted just in time for the winter months when the veil is thin and darkness reigns. I enjoyed creating these so I will most definitely add more. 

In her original form, Berchta was a revered goddess who embodied the mysteries of winter. As a psychopomp, she guided the souls of children who died in infancy across the threshold between worlds, offering them safe passage to the afterlife. This motherly role speaks to her connection with life's most vulnerable transitions.

But Berchta was also a goddess of order and diligence. She would reward those who prepared for the harsher season and completed their spinning tasks before winter by leaving gold coins.  She exists in the liminal space between seasons, encouraging human effort to meet the unwavering forces of nature. The three keys hanging from her belt symbolized her power over birth, death, and rebirth… the eternal cycle that governed both nature and human life.

The White Lady could also shape-shift into a goose-like form, possibly as a reference to winter preparation... geese fly south for the winter. Geese also only migrate at night, as it’s dangerous to be on the ground at risk of becoming a meal for nighttime predators. I can envision the sounds of geese in the skies at night sounding quite alarming, like a slew of Perchten...

In early Germanic tradition, Berchta sometimes led the Wild Hunt, commanding a host of ominous spirits called the Perchten through winter skies during the twelve nights between Christmas and Epiphany. The Wild Hunt in many cultures has been described as a terrifying racket of spirits and creatures flying down from a winter’s night sky who scoop up any unfortunate soul who fails to look away.
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Erika Karl Studio @erikakarl.com · 20/05/2025
I’m excited to announce I’ll be in Friends of Deborah Masters Two group show over in Chatham, NY where you can see a few of my Oracle Project pieces framed and in person. Come and say hello if you can! Deborah Masters Studio 253 Slate Hill Road Chatham, NY May 31 noon-6pm *Please note: NO DOGS
These are a few of my black walnut ink-wash paintings framed and ready to hang in the Friends of Deborah Masters Two group show. These are from The Oracle Project.

I’m excited to announce I’ll be in a group show over at Deborah Master’s studio up in Chatham, NY. I used to rent studio space from her back in the day when we were both still creating in Brooklyn, NY. It was a delight to walk down that hall with all of her enormous sculptures standing guard.

The opening reception will be May 31 from noon-6pm. If you can make it, you will see a lot of great artists in addition to Deb’s amazing body of work. Not to mention, you can see a few of my Oracle Project pieces framed and in person. Come and say hello if you can!

May 31, 2025 noon-6pm

Deborah Masters Studio
253 Slate Hill Road
Chatham, NY

*Please note: NO DOGS - The space can only accommodate 1 friendly but bouncy Duccio

#oracleart
#inkwashpainting
#artexhibit
#hudsonvalleyart
#galleryshow
#blackwalnutink
#inkpainting
#painting
#sculptureI’m excited to announce I’ll be in a group show over at Deborah Master’s studio up in Chatham, NY. I used to rent studio space from her back in the day when we were both still creating in Brooklyn, NY. It was a delight to walk down that hall with all of her enormous sculptures standing guard.

The opening reception will be May 31 from noon-6pm. If you can make it, you will see a lot of great artists in addition to Deb’s amazing body of work. Not to mention, you can see a few of my Oracle Project pieces framed and in person. Come and say hello if you can!

May 31, 2025 noon-6pm

Deborah Masters Studio
253 Slate Hill Road
Chatham, NY

*Please note: NO DOGS - The space can only accommodate 1 friendly but bouncy Duccio (pictured above)

#oracleart
#inkwashpainting
#artexhibit
#hudsonvalleyart
#galleryshow
#blackwalnutink
#inkpainting
#painting
#sculptureThese are a few of Deborah Masters's amazing larger than life sculptures.

I’m excited to announce I’ll be in a group show over at Deborah Master’s studio up in Chatham, NY. I used to rent studio space from her back in the day when we were both still creating in Brooklyn, NY. It was a delight to walk down that hall with all of her enormous sculptures standing guard.

The opening reception will be May 31 from noon-6pm. If you can make it, you will see a lot of great artists in addition to Deb’s amazing body of work. Not to mention, you can see a few of my Oracle Project pieces framed and in person. Come and say hello if you can!

May 31, 2025 noon-6pm

Deborah Masters Studio
253 Slate Hill Road
Chatham, NY

*Please note: NO DOGS - The space can only accommodate 1 friendly but bouncy Duccio

#oracleart
#inkwashpainting
#artexhibit
#hudsonvalleyart
#galleryshow
#blackwalnutink
#inkpainting
#painting
#sculptureThis is Deborah in her studio.

I’m excited to announce I’ll be in a group show over at Deborah Master’s studio up in Chatham, NY. I used to rent studio space from her back in the day when we were both still creating in Brooklyn, NY. It was a delight to walk down that hall with all of her enormous sculptures standing guard.

The opening reception will be May 31 from noon-6pm. If you can make it, you will see a lot of great artists in addition to Deb’s amazing body of work. Not to mention, you can see a few of my Oracle Project pieces framed and in person. Come and say hello if you can!

May 31, 2025 noon-6pm

Deborah Masters Studio
253 Slate Hill Road
Chatham, NY

*Please note: NO DOGS - The space can only accommodate 1 friendly but bouncy Duccio


#oracleart
#inkwashpainting
#artexhibit
#hudsonvalleyart
#galleryshow
#blackwalnutink
#inkpainting
#painting
#sculpture
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Erika Karl Studio @erikakarl.com · 29/04/2025
@jphphoto.bsky.social and I got a few spirit photos taken of us by visiting artist @juliekgray.bsky.social over at the Buckland Museum @bucklandmuseum.bsky.social I recommend getting a few snaps for yourself next time she comes through Cleveland. #spiritphotography #aura #fineartphotography
Trippy spirit photography taken by photographer Julie K Gray from Maine. Colorful auras wiggle and float around her subjects giving a psychedelic glow in the darkness. Trippy spirit photography taken by photographer Julie K Gray from Maine. Colorful auras wiggle and float around her subjects giving a psychedelic glow in the darkness. Trippy spirit photography taken by photographer Julie K Gray from Maine. Colorful auras wiggle and float around her subjects giving a psychedelic glow in the darkness.
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Erika Karl Studio @erikakarl.com · 25/04/2025
The first in a series of group shows "Friends of Deborah Masters" is up throught May 17. I'll be in the 2nd show that's opening May 31. They're open on Saturdays 12-5pm with libations and snacks. If you're up near Hudson, NY... come say hello! Deborah Masters Studio 253 Slate Hill Road Chatham, NY
Spring showers in the North Country❤️

Come and enjoy art in the warm indoors with a cosy🔥fire and hot drinks! ☕☕☕ (I heard there might be mulled wine?)

Join us at @DeborahMastersStudio from noon to 5pm today for the continuation of Friends of Deborah Masters #1, the first in a series of new fine art shows. I will be in the 2nd show coming up end of May, but check out these marvelous artists this Saturday!

Deborah Masters Studio
253 Slate Hill Road
Chatham NY 12037

Featured artists:

Peter Acheson @acheson.peter
Michael Bishop mbishopsculpture.com
Mariella Bisson @mariellabisson
Lee Boroson @lboroson
Coral Bourgeois @coralbourgeois
Jill Bullitt jillbullitt.com
Sasha Chermeyeff @sashachermayeffart
Lynn Criswell lynncriswell.com
Amanda Guest @a_gglimpse
Hollis Jeffcoat HollisJeffcoat.com
Cathy Lebowitz @cathylebowitz
David Paulson @davidpaulsonleeds
Anastasia Traina @anastasiatraina
Carlos Velazquez @cvelazartnyc
Megan Williamson @meganwilliamson__art

Saturdays, through May 17, 2025, 12noon - 5pm.

Many thanks to:

Exhibition Design: Melanie Taylor
Installation: James Nelson
Media: Kristen Couchot

#art #weekend #artopening #artopeningnyc #artist #fineart #oilpainting #sculpture #drawingsofinstagram #drawings #hudsonrivervalley #hudsonvalley #husdonvalleyart #artshow #groupshow #brooklynartist #berkshireart #thingstodohudsonvalley #artopeninghudsonvalley #goingout #thingstodo #eclectic #openstudio #hudsonvalleytodo #artweek #upstateartweek #upstateartweekendSpring showers in the North Country❤️

Come and enjoy art in the warm indoors with a cosy🔥fire and hot drinks! ☕☕☕ (I heard there might be mulled wine?)

Join us at @DeborahMastersStudio from noon to 5pm today for the continuation of Friends of Deborah Masters #1, the first in a series of new fine art shows. I will be in the 2nd show coming up end of May, but check out these marvelous artists this Saturday!

Deborah Masters Studio
253 Slate Hill Road
Chatham NY 12037

Featured artists:

Peter Acheson @acheson.peter
Michael Bishop mbishopsculpture.com
Mariella Bisson @mariellabisson
Lee Boroson @lboroson
Coral Bourgeois @coralbourgeois
Jill Bullitt jillbullitt.com
Sasha Chermeyeff @sashachermayeffart
Lynn Criswell lynncriswell.com
Amanda Guest @a_gglimpse
Hollis Jeffcoat HollisJeffcoat.com
Cathy Lebowitz @cathylebowitz
David Paulson @davidpaulsonleeds
Anastasia Traina @anastasiatraina
Carlos Velazquez @cvelazartnyc
Megan Williamson @meganwilliamson__art

Saturdays, through May 17, 2025, 12noon - 5pm.

Many thanks to:

Exhibition Design: Melanie Taylor
Installation: James Nelson
Media: Kristen Couchot

#art #weekend #artopening #artopeningnyc #artist #fineart #oilpainting #sculpture #drawingsofinstagram #drawings #hudsonrivervalley #hudsonvalley #husdonvalleyart #artshow #groupshow #brooklynartist #berkshireart #thingstodohudsonvalley #artopeninghudsonvalley #goingout #thingstodo #eclectic #openstudio #hudsonvalleytodo #artweek #upstateartweek #upstateartweekendSpring showers in the North Country❤️

Come and enjoy art in the warm indoors with a cosy🔥fire and hot drinks! ☕☕☕ (I heard there might be mulled wine?)

Join us at @DeborahMastersStudio from noon to 5pm today for the continuation of Friends of Deborah Masters #1, the first in a series of new fine art shows. I will be in the 2nd show coming up end of May, but check out these marvelous artists this Saturday!

Deborah Masters Studio
253 Slate Hill Road
Chatham NY 12037

Featured artists:

Peter Acheson @acheson.peter
Michael Bishop mbishopsculpture.com
Mariella Bisson @mariellabisson
Lee Boroson @lboroson
Coral Bourgeois @coralbourgeois
Jill Bullitt jillbullitt.com
Sasha Chermeyeff @sashachermayeffart
Lynn Criswell lynncriswell.com
Amanda Guest @a_gglimpse
Hollis Jeffcoat HollisJeffcoat.com
Cathy Lebowitz @cathylebowitz
David Paulson @davidpaulsonleeds
Anastasia Traina @anastasiatraina
Carlos Velazquez @cvelazartnyc
Megan Williamson @meganwilliamson__art

Saturdays, through May 17, 2025, 12noon - 5pm.

Many thanks to:

Exhibition Design: Melanie Taylor
Installation: James Nelson
Media: Kristen Couchot

#art #weekend #artopening #artopeningnyc #artist #fineart #oilpainting #sculpture #drawingsofinstagram #drawings #hudsonrivervalley #hudsonvalley #husdonvalleyart #artshow #groupshow #brooklynartist #berkshireart #thingstodohudsonvalley #artopeninghudsonvalley #goingout #thingstodo #eclectic #openstudio #hudsonvalleytodo #artweek #upstateartweek #upstateartweekendSpring showers in the North Country❤️

Come and enjoy art in the warm indoors with a cosy🔥fire and hot drinks! ☕☕☕ (I heard there might be mulled wine?)

Join us at @DeborahMastersStudio from noon to 5pm today for the continuation of Friends of Deborah Masters #1, the first in a series of new fine art shows. I will be in the 2nd show coming up end of May, but check out these marvelous artists this Saturday!

Deborah Masters Studio
253 Slate Hill Road
Chatham NY 12037

Featured artists:

Peter Acheson @acheson.peter
Michael Bishop mbishopsculpture.com
Mariella Bisson @mariellabisson
Lee Boroson @lboroson
Coral Bourgeois @coralbourgeois
Jill Bullitt jillbullitt.com
Sasha Chermeyeff @sashachermayeffart
Lynn Criswell lynncriswell.com
Amanda Guest @a_gglimpse
Hollis Jeffcoat HollisJeffcoat.com
Cathy Lebowitz @cathylebowitz
David Paulson @davidpaulsonleeds
Anastasia Traina @anastasiatraina
Carlos Velazquez @cvelazartnyc
Megan Williamson @meganwilliamson__art

Saturdays, through May 17, 2025, 12noon - 5pm.

Many thanks to:

Exhibition Design: Melanie Taylor
Installation: James Nelson
Media: Kristen Couchot

#art #weekend #artopening #artopeningnyc #artist #fineart #oilpainting #sculpture #drawingsofinstagram #drawings #hudsonrivervalley #hudsonvalley #husdonvalleyart #artshow #groupshow #brooklynartist #berkshireart #thingstodohudsonvalley #artopeninghudsonvalley #goingout #thingstodo #eclectic #openstudio #hudsonvalleytodo #artweek #upstateartweek #upstateartweekend
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Erika Karl Studio @erikakarl.com · 20/04/2025
I'm proud to be included in the 2nd Friends of Deborah Masters show, which opens May 31st. Until then, don't miss out on the 1st show which is up until May 17th! It'll be open to see on Saturdays noon-5pm. Check out the details on the website to plan your visit... deborahmasters.com/current-even...
am proud to be included in the second Friends of Deborah Masters show, which opens May 31st. But until then, don't miss out on the first show which is up until May 17th!

If you're near the Hudson Valley in New York, or if you'd like a destination to see if you're traveling through, I can't recommend this group show enough. This is the first in a series of art shows at the studio of Deborah Masters. It will be open to see on Saturdays noon-5pm. Check out the details on the website to plan your visit...

#hudsonvalleyart #friendsofdeborahmasters #artshow #newyorkartshow
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Erika Karl Studio @erikakarl.com · 30/03/2025
I got a chance to drop by the @bucklandmuseum to see the unusual dioramas on display there. Each doll is hand crafted by artist @ambergroome to fit into whimsical dioramas using found objects. It’ll be up until mid June if you’re interested. #diorama #dollart #poppet #bucklandmuseumofwitchcraft
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Erika Karl Studio @erikakarl.com · 14/03/2025
I've been messing around with textile pattern design on the side. It's been a fun learning exercise in how to make these seamless repeats. I call this collection Plantalismanic. #textilepatterndesign #textiledesign #wallpaper #talisman #sacredgeometry
This is a repeat pattern from the Plantalismanic collection by Erika Karl Studio with a sacred geometry theme. Hands point up and down around 2 overlapping spheres containing plants in various states of the four seasons. Moon and sun cycles are above, below, and to the sides. There is a nod to "as above, so below" as well as the cycle of life and death.This is a repeat pattern from the Plantalismanic collection by Erika Karl Studio Hands point up and down and side to side as eyes look on in the background. There is a green textural striped element referencing plant matter. This is a very loose interpretation of the Hamsa Hand, a universal symbol of protection. I think of it as protection by and for our ecosystem... we aren't doing enough these days.This is a repeat pattern from the Plantalismanic collection by Erika Karl Studio with a sacred geometry theme. Light terracotta hands with eyes point up and down and side to side, another reference to the Hamsa Hand for protection. A woody fibrous texture references plant matter while the cycles of the moon and sun create a cross shape. The celestial bodies have a rusty blood red color, which is fun to share right after a lunar eclipse of the blood moon last night.
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Erika Karl Studio @erikakarl.com · 09/02/2025
The next piece for the Oracle Project is taking shape. The 2nd hardest part of this process is waiting for it to dry before adding more layers of ink wash #oracleart #oracleartist #fineart #inkart #inkpainting #blackwalnutink
This is the next ink wash painting for The Oracle Project by Erika Karl. These pieces are painted in black walnut ink and make up each card of an Oracle deck. This portrays a cell tower with a gaping mouth. Parrots are flying out of the mouth to represent noise and confusion. The painting is in progress and will be completed soon.
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Erika Karl Studio @erikakarl.com · 07/02/2025
I call this one Apotheosis from the Oracle Project. What does it mean to be on top? What did you do to get there? I like to think I can keep trying to be my best self, and maybe will be more than once. #oracledeck #oracleartist #inkpainting #fineart #apotheosis #art www.erikakarl.com/shop/p/apoth...
Apotheosis:
Apotheosis is akin to a divine status or deification. Being at one's peak... doing your best work. Something everyone strives for. You are elevated as high as you can go and can go no higher. Coincides with a sun or day archetype.

I'm sharing the process of creating a new oracle deck as I complete each card. I'm creating the imagery for this divination set through the use of my own hand-crafted black walnut ink. As I create each card, I hope to offer a meditative aid to anyone who uses this deck. Whether it be for soul-searching, story-telling, or self-reflection, my goal is to create something that allows the viewer to connect with their inner story and gain clarity on their journey.

This is a 8x12" ink-wash painting. I used black walnut ink on cold press watercolor paper. Reproduction prints are available until the deck is complete.
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Erika Karl Studio @erikakarl.com · 06/02/2025
I find this step the hardest… getting what’s in my head onto the page. Nice natural light in my new studio though! This will be the first piece I paint here. #inkpainting #startpainting #artstudio #fineart
This is a shot of my new studio with the first painting set up to paint here. A blank sheet of cold press watercolor paper stares at me with endless possibilities. Black walnut ink will soon adorn this page and make a the start of a new chapter.
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Erika Karl Studio @erikakarl.com · 06/02/2025
I painted this under the total eclipse on the shores of Lake Erie this past year (2024). A total eclipse was something to behold and brought out some primal emotions! I recommend experiencing one at least once. #oracledeck #oracleartist #fineart #inkpainting #eclipse www.erikakarl.com/shop/p/eclipse
Eclipse:
The Eclipse card is a profound symbol of cosmic balance and revelation, featuring a mesmerizing blend of solar and lunar elements. This card captures a moment where the sun and moon align perfectly, casting a shadow that illuminates the hidden aspects of your life. It suggests that things usually concealed in the shadows are now coming into the light, offering clarity and insight.

As you encounter The Eclipse, you are encouraged to embrace this period of exposure and transformation. The intertwining of sun and moon energies signals a time of significant change and reflection. This alignment brings forth a new dawn, signifying renewal and a shift in perspective. However, with such powerful forces at play, expect some chaos and turbulence. It is a time to remain still, grounded, and introspective, allowing the chaotic energies to settle and integrate within you.

The Eclipse invites you to reflect deeply on your path, urging you to consider aspects of your life that you may have overlooked or avoided. By confronting these revelations, you pave the way for growth and a clearer understanding of your true self. As the eclipse passes and the sun emerges once again, you are offered a chance to move forward with a renewed vision and a balanced heart.

I'm sharing the process of creating a new oracle deck as I complete each card. I'm creating the imagery for this divination set through the use of my own hand-crafted black walnut ink. As I create each card, I hope to offer a meditative aid to anyone who uses this deck. Whether it be for soul-searching, story-telling, or self-reflection, my goal is to create something that allows the viewer to connect with their inner story and gain clarity on their journey.

This is a 8x12" ink-wash painting. I used black walnut ink on cold press watercolor paper. Reproduction prints are available until the deck is complete.
040
Erika Karl Studio @erikakarl.com · 05/02/2025
This is the first piece I did that lead to the Oracle Project. Rook is a type of crow and is often seen as a messenger. The trillium flower is a symbol of hope with the 3 pedals for 3 phases. #oracledeck #oracleartist #oracleart #inkpainting #blackwalnutink #fineart www.erikakarl.com/shop/p/rook
Rook:
The Rook is a crow-like bird often seen as a messenger. Not necessarily of death, but could be a warning of something tragic or demanding that causes a change. You will achieve reaching your better self after going through something difficult. The change is for the better and the future is good after transitioning. The trillium flower represents hope and/or rebirth. It also has meaning in its 3 petals. After going through 3 phases you will reach a place of grace and elegance.

I'm sharing the process of creating a new oracle deck as I complete each card. I'm creating the imagery for this divination set through the use of my own hand-crafted black walnut ink. As I create each card, I hope to offer a meditative aid to anyone who uses this deck. Whether it be for soul-searching, story-telling, or self-reflection, my goal is to create something that allows the viewer to connect with their inner story and gain clarity on their journey.

This is a 8x12" ink-wash painting. I used black walnut ink on cold press watercolor paper. Reproduction prints are available until the deck is complete.
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Erika Karl Studio @erikakarl.com · 02/02/2025
I painted last year as smoke wafted over Lake Erie from the Canadian wild fires. I was reluctant to post this, but I'm happy to hear the Eaton & Palisades fires are 100% contained. My heart goes out to LA #oracleart #oracleartist #fineart #inkart #painting #walnutink www.erikakarl.com/oracle-project
Inferno:
Sometimes burning it all to the ground is a way to free yourself, as long as you aren't hurting others. It's a painful process to rise from the ashes, so use this only as a last resort. 

I'm sharing the process of creating a new oracle deck as I complete each card. I'm creating the imagery for this divination set through the use of my own hand-crafted black walnut ink. As I create each card, I hope to offer a meditative aid to anyone who uses this deck. Whether it be for soul-searching, story-telling, or self-reflection, my goal is to create something that allows the viewer to connect with their inner story and gain clarity on their journey.

This is a 9x12" ink-wash painting. I used black walnut ink on cold press watercolor paper. Reproduction prints are available until the deck is complete.
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Erika Karl Studio @erikakarl.com · 30/01/2025
Anima Animus - I thought this piece is appropriate at time of so many phobias. Maybe it's time to face what scares you about it to see it's not frightening at all. #oracleart #oracledeck #oracleartist #inkpainting #fineart #painting #illustration #blackwalnutink www.erikakarl.com/shop/p/anima...
Anima & Animus:
The concept of Anima & Animus reflects the soul, as inspired by Carl Jung’s psychological explorations. It symbolizes the union of the feminine and masculine energies present within us all, regardless of gender. Traditionally perceived as feminine, the Anima offers empathy and understanding while highlighting qualities such as intuition, emotional depth, and creativity. Conversely, the Animus emphasizes masculine energies such as rationality, courage, and determination while inspiring action and conviction. This card encourages a blend of these energies, symbolizing the balance and unity that is achieved when we acknowledge and accept all aspects of our being. For those who identify beyond the traditional binary, the Anima & Animus card is a celebration of the fluidity and diversity of the human spirit, offering a message of completeness and self-acceptance.

I'm sharing the process of creating a new oracle deck as I complete each card. I'm creating the imagery for this divination set through the use of my own hand-crafted black walnut ink. As I create each card, I hope to offer a meditative aid to anyone who uses this deck. Whether it be for soul-searching, story-telling, or self-reflection, my goal is to create something that allows the viewer to connect with their inner story and gain clarity on their journey.

This is a 9x12" ink-wash painting. I used black walnut ink on cold press watercolor paper. Reproduction prints are available until the deck is complete.
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Erika Karl Studio @erikakarl.com · 30/01/2025
I noticed these ash saplings in the winter out East at a difficult time in my life. They were the only ones still with their leaves, pale and glowing in the gloom. So I decided to paint them. #oracleart #oracledeck #fineart #inkpainting #painting #grove #oracleartist www.erikakarl.com/shop/p/grove
Grove: 
The symbolism behind the grove and trees, in general, is ingrained in all of human history as the cycle of life. One tree alone pulls energy from the sun while replenishing the soil it stands on. It provides shelter and safety for other creatures and can have a symbiotic relationship with other nearby plants and animals. It can symbolize rebirth and growth or it can show decay, destruction, and sometimes death. A grove of trees stands strong together to ensure the survival of its own kind, or they can choke each other out, not allowing light to reach the younger saplings below. In those cases, only fire and destruction of the old grove will allow new life to begin. If you pull a grove card, you may need to look at your own situation to interpret the message. You may need to let go of something to allow the new to begin. It could also symbolize your own ancestors or a group of friends and how you stand (or don’t stand) with them. Do you feel safe in your grove, or do you need to leave?

I'm sharing the process of creating a new oracle deck as I complete each card. I'm creating the imagery for this divination set through the use of my own hand-crafted black walnut ink. As I create each card, I hope to offer a meditative aid to anyone who uses this deck. Whether it be for soul-searching, story-telling, or self-reflection, my goal is to create something that allows the viewer to connect with their inner story and gain clarity on their journey.

This is a 9x12" ink-wash painting. I used black walnut ink on cold press watercolor paper. Reproduction prints are available until the deck is complete.
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Erika Karl Studio @erikakarl.com · 29/01/2025
Event Horizon from the Oracle Project... a point of no return. It's an 8x12" black walnut ink-wash painting on cold-press watercolor paper. #oracleart #oracledeck #inkwash #inkpainting #divination #blackwalnutink #fineart #illustration #painting #oracleproject erikakarl.com/shop/p/event-horizon
Event Horizon:
The Event Horizon card portrays a moment of cosmic surrender, drawing from the powerful gravitational pull of a black hole. Its message is a stark reminder of life’s irreversible thresholds, a point of no return that cannot be undone. Crossing this line signifies an unsettling transition, where the only way forward is to embrace the new reality that lies beyond. This journey through darkness can lead to the most luminous of dawns. If standing before an event horizon, here is where a critical choice is to be made. Push forward, or stay back. If you push forward, you will be stretched to your limits and challenged to let go of what was. In the process of being swallowed and reshaped, you will need to surrender or risk being torn apart. Only you know which choice is right for you. Take time to consider the consequences.

I'm sharing the process of creating a new oracle deck as I complete each card. I'm creating the imagery for this divination set through the use of my own hand-crafted black walnut ink. As I create each card, I hope to offer a meditative aid to anyone who uses this deck. Whether it be for soul-searching, story-telling, or self-reflection, my goal is to create something that allows the viewer to connect with their inner story and gain clarity on their journey.

The Oracle Project is a creative and profound endeavor for me. Through my process, I can connect with my past experiences and my intuition to create something very personal. As I work on this project, I'm reminded of the importance of storytelling and how powerful it can be. I'm also drawn to the magic of symbols and how they can help us make sense of our lives. Each card will have my own take on the characters and archetypes they portray. By creating this deck, I hope to provide aid for anyone who is seeking clarity or insight.

This is a 9x12" ink-wash painting. I used black walnut ink on cold press watercolor paper. Reproduction prints are available until the deck is complete.
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Erika Karl Studio @erikakarl.com · 27/01/2025
This is Moth, from the Oracle Project. Don't get confused by artificial light or you could end up in flames. Look at what's happening right before our eyes. #oracleart #oracledeck #oracleartist #divination #fineart #painting #illustration #moth www.erikakarl.com/shop/p/moth
Moth: 
Moths use celestial lights to navigate in the dark and end up orienting to whatever light is near, thinking it is far away. Unfortunately, they become confused and often end up in flames. Like a moth, artificial distractions can lead you in the wrong direction. Superficial people are everywhere, don’t get caught up in their orbit. Put down whatever shiny object is wasting your time. Instead, look within to find your true light, and to feel centered. Don’t remain stuck in the artificial light for too long or you could end up burnt out.

I'm sharing the process of creating a new oracle deck as I complete each card. I'm creating the imagery for this divination set through the use of my own hand-crafted black walnut ink. As I create each card, I hope to offer a meditative aid to anyone who uses this deck. Whether it be for soul-searching, story-telling, or self-reflection, my goal is to create something that allows the viewer to connect with their inner story and gain clarity on their journey.

The Oracle Project is a creative and profound endeavor for me. Through my process, I can connect with my past experiences and my intuition to create something very personal. As I work on this project, I'm reminded of the importance of storytelling and how powerful it can be. I'm also drawn to the magic of symbols and how they can help us make sense of our lives. Each card will have my own take on the characters and archetypes they portray. By creating this deck, I hope to provide aid for anyone who is seeking clarity or insight.

The process of creating this work has been an adventure of magic, mystery, and serendipitous revelations. I hope to inspire others to embark on their own journey of spiritual growth and self-discovery. This project will be a reminder that we have the power to create our own destiny and that sometimes the answers we seek are already within us.
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Erika Karl Studio @erikakarl.com · 26/01/2025
Here is another card from The Oracle Project. Magnetism: Attraction to the opposite and repulsion of the same. It's actually my sister's face. #oracledeck #inkwash #blackwalnutink #oracleart #divination #magneticfield #magnetism #illustration #painting #fineart www.erikakarl.com/shop/p/magne...
Magnetism: Positive and negative behaviors & emotions. Attraction to the opposite and repulsion of the same. What are you aligned with and what do you stand against? Think of a compass, always aligned with the Earth's magnetic poles. In reality, your compass is not actually pointing north. The poles are not a static geographic location. They drift and sometimes flip direction. If your current direction is becoming uncomfortable, maybe even unbearable, then flip flopping may not be unheard of. Adjustment and fluidity may be required to come into alignment.

I'm sharing the process of creating a new oracle deck as I complete each card. I'm creating the imagery for this divination set through the use of my own hand-crafted black walnut ink. As I create each card, I hope to offer a meditative aid to anyone who uses this deck. Whether it be for soul-searching, story-telling, or self-reflection, my goal is to create something that allows the viewer to connect with their inner story and gain clarity on their journey.

The Oracle Project is a creative and profound endeavor for me. Through my process, I can connect with my past experiences and my intuition to create something very personal. As I work on this project, I'm reminded of the importance of storytelling and how powerful it can be. I'm also drawn to the magic of symbols and how they can help us make sense of our lives. Each card will have my own take on the characters and archetypes they portray. By creating this deck, I hope to provide aid for anyone who is seeking clarity or insight.

The process of creating this work has been an adventure of magic, mystery, and serendipitous revelations. I hope to inspire others to embark on their own journey of spiritual growth and self-discovery. This project will be a reminder that we have the power to create our own destiny and that sometimes the answers we seek are already within us.
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Erika Karl Studio @erikakarl.com · 25/01/2025
This is one of my cards from an oracle deck I'm working on. I figure we all need the knowledge of the Crone these days. She fought so hard for us, don't discard her! Prints available until I complete the deck. www.erikakarl.com/shop/p/crone #oracleart #divination #inkwash #oracledeck #illustration
The Crone has a crown made of herbs that relieve imbalance: dandelion leaf, black cohosh root, green tea leaf, cardamom seed, rooibos leaf, licorice root, and ginkgo leaf. She is a smiling elder woman. A mentor. Someone to offer wise counsel for important decisions. A guide for transition. A channeling of inner knowledge and intuition, looking inward to shed light on how to go about a transformation. Trust one's intuition and find a positive sense of self, purpose, and balance. Ask yourself how you can harness your power.

I'm excited to share with you the process of creating a new oracle deck. I'm creating the imagery for this divination set through the use of my own hand-crafted black walnut ink. As I carefully craft each card, I hope to offer a meditative aid to anyone who uses this deck. Whether it be for soul-searching, story-telling, or self-reflection, my goal is to create something that allows the viewer to connect with their inner story and gain clarity on their journey.

The Oracle Project is a creative and profound endeavor for me. Through my process, I can connect with my past experiences and my intuition to create something very personal. As I work on this project, I'm reminded of the importance of storytelling and how powerful it can be. I'm also drawn to the magic of symbols and how they can help us make sense of our lives. Each card will have my own take on the characters and archetypes they portray. By creating this deck, I hope to provide aid for anyone who is seeking clarity or insight.

The process of creating this work has been an adventure of magic, mystery, and serendipitous revelations. I hope to inspire others to embark on their own journey of spiritual growth and self-discovery. This project will be a reminder that we have the power to create our own destiny and that sometimes the answers we seek are already within us.
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Erika Karl Studio @erikakarl.com · 24/01/2025
Here are some shots of me making black walnut ink. Making ink is almost free. Well, minus the effort to do it. Here is a link to my recipe if you want to know more. I love that @bsky.app lets me share here instead of "see link in bio" www.erikakarl.com/blog/black-w... #inkmaking #blackwalnutink
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Erika Karl Studio @erikakarl.com · 23/01/2025
Posting some art to try out Blue Sky. This is one of my ink-wash paintings made with inks I make myself. Hebridean Hills | pokeberry and black walnut ink
Hebridean Hills | pokeberry and black walnut ink
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