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31 January - 30 April 2025

(The exhibition will be closed Thursday 17 April - Tuesday 22 April 2025 inclusive)

Gallery Opening Hours:  
Tuesday - Friday, 10am-6pm 
Saturday, 10am-5pm

Tarot cards are everywhere; but where do they come from, and what is at stake in the different forms they have taken? As tools to explore the unconscious, sources of artistic inspiration and emblems of counterculture, tarot decks have served as some of our most powerful shapers of fortune, creativity and even identity. 

Our major new exhibition, Tarot - Origins & Afterlives, will present a sequence of critical moments from Tarot’s long history, exploring the cards’ iconographic origins and the profound transformations they have undergone in the hands of artists, mystics and writers.

Highlights include:

  • Rare and Historic Tarot Decks: Explore fascinating examples like the Austin Osman Spare Tarot deck (c. 1906), presented courtesy of The Magic Circle Collection.
  • Historical Context: Learn about tarot’s roots in Renaissance Europe and its evolution through mysticism, esotericism, and modern reinterpretations.
  • Cultural Significance: Trace how tarot has shaped creativity, influenced countercultural movements, and inspired modern artists and writers.

A public programme accompanies the exhibition, including academic symposia, screenings, readings and immersive events. For details please see https://warburg.sas.ac.uk/search-events

Entrance is free with timed tickets. Book your tickets here.

To learn more about our exhibitions, news and events please subscribe to the Warburg Institute mailing list.

Gallery Access

  • The Warburg Institute is accessible via a permanent ramp positioned to the right-hand side of the main entrance.
  • A designated disabled parking space is available immediately outside the Institute.
  • Visitors do not need to call ahead, but if assistance is required or if there are any questions regarding accessibility, please contact warburg@sas.ac.uk
  • Our gallery space has flat access, and our exhibitions are designed to be fully wheelchair accessible.
  • A large print format handout is available at reception.
  • If visitors wish to bring an assistant, we are happy to accommodate them. Assistance Dogs are also welcome.
  • There is a disabled toilet near the entrance to the gallery.

Image: Austin Osman Spare tarot deck (c.1906). Courtesy The Magic Circle Collection and Darren Martin.

Exhibition Events

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