
An important part of many ancient cultures, playing cards carry a strong symbology to this day, whether as a form of entertainment or a narrative tool. Designer and illustrator Larissa Arantes, who's collaborated with names like O Globo, GNT, and more, uses playing cards as a source of inspiration for her work, always looking to convey emotion through images.
In this course, learn to illustrate a pack of cards from the initial sketches to the final artwork. Larissa shows you how to choose an aim, a theme, a narrative, and an artistic language along with the best format for your cards. Also see some strategies for financing and presenting your illustrated deck.
16 lessons & 31 downloads

8 minutes, 41 seconds

6 minutes, 38 seconds

8 minutes, 51 seconds

7 minutes, 23 seconds

4 minutes, 30 seconds

11 minutes, 15 seconds
Start by finding out about Larissa Arantes' journey through the art world so far and how she became a professional illustrator. She also shares her main influences from a range of different areas.
Next, analyze the different types of decks that exist and study the basic structure of a card. Larissa then helps you find inspiration for your own pack of cards to choose a theme, narrative, and artistic purpose.
Now it's time to get to work creating your very own deck of cards! Define the various graphic elements for your artwork and put together a color palette in keeping with your chosen theme. Then do some sketches to work on the visual composition until you're happy with your design.
To wrap things up, Larissa gives some final tips for sharing your work on social media and funding the manufacture of your pack of cards with an engaged audience. Also see how to choose the best paper for printing your creation.
Illustrate and produce three cards for your own deck with the theme of your choice.

Anyone interested in creating their own illustrated deck of cards.
Basic illustration skills are necessary for this course.
You also need basic drawing materials and a computer installed with Photoshop or your preferred editing software.

Este curso es hermoso, esta muy bien explicado. Me gusto Mucho <3
Me gustó muchísimo el curso y me inspiró para iniciar mi trabajo. Gracias!
Es maravilloso! Justo lo que necesitaba aprender para mi siguiente proyecto
A fantastic course!
Great course.

Introduction
Getting to know the deck: types, structures and characteristics
Creating your own deck
Publishing, printing and finalizing the deck
Final project
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The course is intermediate level and recommended for those with some experience in illustration or visual arts, but beginners with basic drawing skills can also benefit.
You can use traditional materials like watercolor and paper, or digital editing software such as Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator. The course encourages you to choose based on your preference and available resources.
You will learn how to create original illustrated decks starting from symbolic research, developing a visual narrative, selecting a color palette, to illustration techniques, production, promotion, and selling your deck.
The course explores how universal symbols, myths from various cultures, and Jungian concepts can inspire illustrated cards, adding meaning and depth to your artwork.
Yes, the course teaches strategies for promoting your work on social media, participating in art fairs, setting up an online store, and tips on pricing and crowdfunding your decks.
Basic drawing skills are recommended, but the course covers everything from the creative process and reference research to illustration techniques tailored to your style and skill level.
Yes, there are specific lessons on inclusive design, covering graphic elements, readability, and adapting cards for diverse audiences, including those with visual impairments.