JAMIE HEWLETT: Tarot
September 10 - November 3
This Fall, Woodward Gallery proudly presents an online exhibition featuring Jamie Hewlett’s first-
edition TAROT series, from his acclaimed “The Suggestionists” collection. Known for his playful
and provocative approach, Hewlett injects a dose of sly absurdity into the mystical and arcane
world of tarot.
Jamie Hewlett, renowned for his groundbreaking work across comics, visual arts, and music,
first gained acclaim with the iconic comic book series, Tank Girl. His innovative spirit further
manifested in his collaboration with Damon Albarn on the virtual band, Gorillaz, where Hewlett
crafted the distinct personas and universe of the band. In recognition of his pioneering work,
he was named “Designer of the Year” by the Design Museum in 2006. Hewlett’s debut solo
exhibition at London’s Saatchi Gallery in 2015, which later traveled to New York City’s Woodward
Gallery in 2016, established him as a significant force in contemporary art.
In this series, Hewlett draws inspiration from the esoteric and vividly surreal world of tarotica,
building upon Alejandro Jodorowsky’s reinterpretation of the Tarot de Marseille—a deck
Jodorowsky regards as the quintessential Tarot. Hewlett’s 22 oversized tarot cards marry
Jodorowsky’s psycho-shamanic vision with Hewlett’s own irreverent and audacious style.
The series features Hewlett’s signature characters in unexpected roles; for example, in “La Roue
De Fortune”, whimsical creatures traverse the card, while “L’Amoureux” captures the poignant
emotional complexity of its subject. In a playful twist, a trademark monkey takes the place of the
traditional dog in “Le Mat.”
Hewlett’s success lies in his seamless integration of comic book art, animation, and music
visuals, creating culturally resonant and influential works. His ability to bridge diverse artistic
disciplines continues to shape and inspire contemporary art and pop culture.
Please join us this Fall for an exploration of Jamie Hewlett’s imaginative and boundary-pushing
TAROT series, exclusively online at Woodward Gallery, and the virtual ARTSY.net Viewing Room.