I: ACE OF CUPS
The chalice on the original tarot deck is replaced with a plastic bar mug.
Head empty, Mug Filled! The bar scene in Ames, IA, is iconic, attracting young people all over Iowa. You can find mugs like this in any college student's kitchen cabinet.
XV: THE DEVIL
An Iowa State Parking Division officer replaces the devil on the original tarot deck, and the bad luck they sprinkle onto the unlucky person is replaced by parking tickets.
Iowa State has the worst parking laws in the world. I will admit to being a bit spiteful in creating this.
VI: THE LOVERS
Referencing the original tarot deck designs, ISU mascot Cy Bird replaces the angel in the sky, and unofficial Iowa State swan mascots Lancelot and Elaine replace the humans.
Other elements included are the central campus campanile with the clock striking twelve, alluding to the campus tradition of kissing your loved one under the campanile at midnight.
X: WHEEL OF FORTUNE
Instead of a wheel of symbols in the middle, the Memorial Union Zodiac is in the center. The Egyptian god is replaced by a studious student, and the four corners represent the four seasons experienced here in Iowa.
While the previous cards are self-explanatory, my drawing of The Wheel of Fortune has a deeper meaning. The wheel represents good luck, life cycles, destiny, or a turning point. College, for many, is a pinnacle time in a young person's life.
The Zodiac is a bronze relief located at the entrance of the Memorial Union. Tradition says that you'll fail your next exam if you walk across the Zodiac! So we walk around the famous wheel.