Since I’m unable to think in images (aphantasia), my “artistic process” in a visual medium is to come up with a concept (in words), scribble stick figures to estimate the spatial relationships in the allotted space, and then painstakingly build upon the stick figures based upon whether I do or don’t like each stroke as it happens. Eventually, the blobs take identifiable forms.
This little guy had pointy ears… until this wrinkled ankle (wrankle) happened. Suddenly, he was obviously a Basset hound. Cue the floppy ear.
This is the dog (unshaded) I’m using on The Fool card of my bespoke tarot deck. Usually, the dog is some yappy little thing scolding the Fool for forsaking the status quo. Occasionally, it’s a snarling guard dog bearing down like the Fool is an escaping prisoner.
I love a Basset in the role. Even if it’s sad you’re leaving, not malicious in any way, guilt might stop you. If not, its sorrowful howls alert less-friendly parties to your otherwise unannounced departure.
It’s not only annoyances and aggressors who work to keep you from leaving, growing, and changing. Even people who genuinely love you may act in ways that limit you, whether for your “safety” or so they don’t have to experience change they don’t want along with you.
That’s good to consider when you’re doing a reading, but I particularly wanted this art for a “plotting with tarot” guide, for which “How is this character’s most steadfast ally going to fuck up their life?” is really good to consider right from the first card.