In a unique Kickstarter campaign, Monica Anne, an artist is inviting backers to experience the Filipino concept of “kilig”—a feeling of heart-fluttering excitement and joy that transcends simple English translation. This campaign, centered around the Kilig Oracle deck, seeks to encapsulate the intense emotions of love and nostalgia that many may remember from their formative years.
According to Monica, “kilig” is more than just a word; it’s an emotion that brings to mind moments like the first message from a high school crush on AIM or the floating sensation after a magical first date. It’s the thrill of hearing “I love you” for the first time and the quiet joy of realizing your feelings are reciprocated. These moments are what the artist hopes to capture in this beautifully crafted deck.
Reflecting on her own experiences as a hopelessly romantic preteen in the early 2000s, the artist recalls doodling her crush’s name in a notebook while daydreaming of perfect dates to the tune of 98 Degrees’ “I Do (Cherish You).” As she matured, her understanding of love evolved to encompass the complexities and balance required in relationships. This blend of youthful whimsy and adult wisdom is what the “Kilig Oracle” deck aims to represent.
Created during the COVID lockdown in 2020, the Kilig Oracle deck was inspired by the early 2000s as well as Monica’s nostalgic journey through old family photographs and childhood relics. These personal touches are woven into the deck’s artwork, making it a heartfelt homage to the deeply felt, sometimes ineffable emotions of youth.
The initial Kickstarter campaign for the first edition of the deck was a success, albeit with a limited print run. Now, the artist is launching a second edition, aiming to enhance and expand on the original vision, starting from US$43 for a deck.
Features of the Second Edition:
- 50 cards housed in a sturdy magnetic flap box
- Card dimensions of 3.5 x 5 inches
- 350 gsm cardstock with a matte finish
- A 65-page physical guidebook, printed in color if stretch goals are met
- Silver holographic edges with a unique design
- This will be the final reprint
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