Pamela Colman Smith: The Artist Behind the Rider-Waite Tarot Deck

Pamela Colman Smith, affectionately known as “Pixie,” was a British artist, illustrator, and occultist whose creative vision profoundly shaped the world of tarot. Pamela was born on February 16, 1878, in London to American parents.

This blog post delves into Smith’s life, her collaboration with Arthur Edward Waite, and the lasting impact of her work.

Early Life and Artistic Development

Pamelas artistic journey began at a young age. After her mother’s death when she was just ten years old, she was taken in by family friends who performed in the Lyceum travelling theatre. In 1893, at age 15, she enrolled at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, studying art under Arthur Wesley Dow.

In 1901, Smith joined the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, a secret society focused on mystical studies and esoteric knowledge. I have never heard of this order before; it is one I need to look into. It was here that she met Arthur Edward Waite, a fellow member who would become instrumental in her career.

Literary Contributions

Beyond her visual art, Pamela emerged as a passionate storyteller and cultural documentarian. In 1903, she launched her own magazine titled “The Green Sheaf.” This publication featured contributions from notable figures such as W.B. Yeats. “The Green Sheaf” ran for only 13 issues over a little more than a year; it showcased her ability to curate diverse artistic voices.

Before starting “The Green Sheaf,” Smith collaborated with Jack B. Yeats, the brother of poet W.B. Yeats, on “A Broad Sheet,” a monthly publication that combined hand-coloured illustrations with poetry. This partnership allowed her to connect with influential literary circles. However, feeling the need for a platform that fully represented her vision, she decided to create her own magazine.

Discouraged by the financial challenges of “The Green Sheaf,” Smith redirected her efforts towards establishing The Green Sheaf Press in 1904. This small press focused on publishing a variety of literary works, including novels, poems, fairy tales, and folktales—primarily from women writers—until at least 1906. Smith also illustrated two significant books on Jamaican folklore: “Annancy Stories” (1899) and “Chim-Chim: Folk Stories from Jamaica” (1905).

Her artistic talents extended to notable literary figures as well; she illustrated works for William Butler Yeats, including The Illustrated Verses of William Butler Yeats (1898), as well as projects. Additionally, she created illustrations for Bram Stoker’s last novel, The Lair of the White Worm (1911).

Supporting suffrages and charty work

Smith was politically engaged as well; she supported women’s suffrage in Great Britain through her artwork for the Suffrage Atelier, a collective of professional illustrators. During World War I, she contributed poster designs and toys to the Red Cross.

Collaboration with Arthur Edward Waite

Arthur Edward Waite

In 1909, Waite commissioned Pamela to produce a tarot deck that would appeal to both art enthusiasts and those interested in the occult. This collaboration marked a significant turning point in tarot history.

Unlike earlier decks that featured simple designs for the Minor Arcana (the four suits), Smith’s illustrations depicted full scenes filled with rich symbolism and narrative depth.The Rider-Waite Tarot deck, published by William Rider & Son in December 1909, consisted of 78 cards that included both the Major Arcana (22 cards) and Minor Arcana (56 cards). Pamela’s innovative approach to illustrating the Minor Arcana set this deck apart from its predecessors. Each card was designed to convey deeper meanings through visual storytelling, allowing readers to connect intuitively with the imagery.

One of the most notable aspects of Pamela’s work is her ability to translate Waite’s esoteric ideas into accessible images. For example, the Lovers card features Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, symbolising choice and duality—concepts central to Waite’s interpretations. Her illustrations for the Minor Arcana were particularly groundbreaking; previously, these cards often featured only simple pip designs.

Legacy and Impact

The Rider-Waite Tarot deck quickly gained popularity and became a standard among tarot readers worldwide. Its influence can be seen in countless subsequent tarot decks that have drawn inspiration from Smith’s distinctive style. Today, it remains one of the best-selling tarot decks of all time.Despite her significant contributions to tarot, Pamela Colman Smith remained relatively unrecognised during her lifetime.

She illustrated over 20 books and wrote collections of Jamaican folklore but often did not receive proper credit for her work. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in her life and contributions, leading to greater acknowledgement of her role as a pioneering artist.

In 2009, U.S. Games Systems published a commemorative edition titled The Smith-Waite Centennial Deck, which placed Smith’s name prominently on the packaging—an important step toward recognizing her legacy in tarot history.

Although Pamela continued to write and illustrate in her later years, she struggled to find publishers for her work, likely due to changing public tastes following the First World War. She passed away on 18 September 1951 in her apartment at Bencoolen House in Bude. After her death, her possessions were auctioned off to pay her debts

The exact location of her gravesite is unknown, but it is believed that she was buried in an unmarked grave in St. Michael’s Cemetery in Bude. I find this so sad.

Personal Reflection

Pamela Pixie Coman Smith

As an owner of the Rider-Waite Tarot deck, I find Pamela’s illustrations both beautiful and iconic. Each card is a miniature masterpiece rich with symbolism and narrative depth. The vibrant colours and intricate details draw you in, inviting contemplation and interpretation.

It’s disheartening to realise that Smith didn’t receive the recognition she deserved during her lifetime. Her contributions to the world of tarot and art are immeasurable.

This stark reality reminds us of the challenges faced by female artists of her time. Today, as we appreciate the enduring legacy of the Rider-Waite Tarot deck, it’s crucial to acknowledge and celebrate Pamela Colman Smith’s pivotal role in its creation.In conclusion, her artistic genius transformed the landscape of tarot reading.Next time you use the Raider-waite tarot deck, take some time to think and give thanks to Pamela.