Back in 2021, I discovered Nicolas Bruno’s The Somnia Tarot’s Kickstarter campaign a little bit too late and I’ve regretted not getting a copy of the deck. Bruno combines surrealism photography with the art of tarot, and he’s able transform nightmares into visual narratives, blending photography, sculpture, and costume design to bridge the ethereal and the tangible.
Bruno’s artistic process is as intricate as the dreams he captures. Each photograph begins as a dream journal entry—fragments of emotion, fleeting imagery, and symbols from his subconscious. These entries evolve into sketches, leading to the construction of props and costumes from vintage materials. In an alchemic act of creation, Bruno steps into his art, modeling for each piece to confront and reclaim the terrifying moments of sleep paralysis.
Over 15 years, this therapeutic practice has yielded a body of work that captures the surreal beauty of dreams. “Creating The Oracle Series felt like the natural evolution of my journey,” he explains. “It’s a bridge between the spirit of my present and past selves.”
The Somnia Oracle Series Deck
The Oracle Series extends beyond the classic structure of tarot, delving into the archetypes of dreams and nightmares. The deck features 74 ethereal photographs, including new works and selections from Bruno’s archives. It is designed to inspire self-reflection and shadow work, offering a unique tool for exploring the subconscious.
Features:
- Premium 400gsm cards with gold-gilded edges, smooth matte finish, and foil-stamped details.
- A luxurious plum-colored box with a magnetic lid and linen finish.
- A comprehensive booklet detailing the stories and meanings behind the cards.
- Authenticity measures, a pendulum board card, and bonus materials for collectors.
The Somnia Tarot: Revised Edition
Building on the success of the original Somnia Tarot, the Revised Edition is a reimagined masterpiece. Each card in the 78-card deck merges tarot tradition with Bruno’s dreamscapes, enhanced by meticulous craftsmanship and feedback from a global community of readers.
Upgrades Include:
- Refined artistry on full-bleed 400gsm cards with gold-gilded edges and foil-stamped details.
- A navy-colored magnetic box with a matte-linen finish.
- An updated guidebook featuring archetypal insights.
- Integration with the Oracle Series for a seamless, customizable reading experience.
Bruno’s passion for tarot is deeply tied to his Greek heritage. Inspired by a hidden deck belonging to his great-grandmother, his work pays homage to familial traditions while reimagining them through his lens. “Through The Somnia Tarot, I hope you’ll be inspired to explore the depths of the subconscious, facing your own shadows and finding treasures beneath the surface,” he shares.
Bruno’s past projects, such as The Alleyman’s Tarot and The Alleyway Oracles, have showcased his ability to resonate with a worldwide audience. His works are archived in the College of Psychic Studies in London, cementing his place in the tarot and artistic communities.
Starting from $60 for either The Somnia Oracle Series or The Somnia Tarot: Revised Edition on Kickstarter, I am now spoiled for choices. As a writer and enthusiast who only highlights creators and decks that truly resonate with me, I can confidently say that Nicolas Bruno’s work doesn’t just stand out—it redefines what’s possible in this space.
These decks aren’t just tools for divination; they are immersive art experiences born from years of dedication and they belong in a gallery as much as they do on my reading table. If you’re a collector, a practitioner, or simply a lover of evocative art, these decks will captivate you like nothing else.
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