The Isle of Wight Tarot, a collection of illustrated fiction, commissioned by Creative Island, the Isle of Wight’s cultural agency, for the 2026 Can You Hear Us? celebration, are on exhibit at Monkton Arts in Ryde from 6th to 17th October 2026. And the public is invited to the exhibit’s special opening on 9th October from 5pm to 7pm.
History, folklore, heritage, people, places and the here-and-now are rendered through the creative lens of illustrator Tommy Brentnall and writer Anmarie Bowler in this 24-card tarot deck.
Isle of Wight Tarot creative producer, Tracy Mikich, explained,
“There are stories of innovation, pathos, enchantment and punk rock, shuffled together to reveal a vision of place that is engaged, eccentric and exhilarating.”
Reconnecting with place
Traditionally, tarot has been a way to connect with the self, a tool offering a moment to reflect and explore future possibilities.
The Isle of Wight Tarot instead seek to reconnect readers and viewers to chosen cultural threads woven into a specific place.
Rethinking the Last Wight Witch
Writer Anmarie Bowler believes, “short fiction often unveils pockets of authenticity and truth that hard facts overlook.
These cards were an opportunity to question what we think we know.”
She continued,
“So for example, while history dubs Molly Downer the Last Wight Witch, the Anchorite card wonders aloud why the woman who kept to herself, tending a wild garden, was painted a pariah?
“Rather than embracing history’s well-used characterization – outcast occultist – might Molly be celebrated as an early environmentalist instead?”
From penance at the Pepperpot to courage above the Ventnor Fringe Big Top, from chimney sweep Valentine Gray to Ryde-born punk rock band Grade 2, short narratives and evocative illustration respond to the Island’s past and present.
Low-impact Risograph printing
The Isle of Wight Tarot are printed on a Risograph. While it looks like a photocopier, the Riso uses spot colours and stencils to create tactile, vibrant print effects with minimal impact on the environment.
Where to see the cards
The project was imagined and developed at Boojum&Snark in Sandown. In addition to Monkton Arts, all 24 cards – stories and images – will be on exhibit at the Isle of Wight Literary Festival in Cowes from 8th to 11th October 2026.
The Tarot opening on 9th October at Monkton Arts will include music from fiddle player Sophie Kate and unique tarot readings.
News shared by Anmarie on behalf of Isle of Wight tarot. Ed
