Great Lynx Designs

🃏 Northeastern Woodlands School Playing Cards

A proof-of-concept visual storytelling project inspired by the mythology, art, and spirit of the Ojibwe people. Each card reimagines traditional playing card roles—Ace, Joker, Jack, Queen, and King—through original illustration rooted in the Woodland Art tradition.

🎨 Project Overview

This limited-edition card series is a homage to the storytelling traditions of the Ojibwe, drawing influence from the works of Norval Morrisseau and the teachings of Basil Johnston. Created in Adobe Illustrator, each card features stylized linework, vibrant natural colors, and symbolic motifs.

  • Medium: Vector illustration (Adobe Illustrator)
  • Style: Woodland School (Morrisseau-inspired)
  • Current Cards: Ace, Joker, Jack, Queen, King
  • Status: Proof-of-concept complete; full deck planned

🖼️ Card Designs

Ace of the Ojibwe Playing Cards Joker of the Ojibwe Playing Cards Jack of the Ojibwe Playing Cards Queen of the Ojibwe Playing Cards King of the Ojibwe Playing Cards

🔮 Card Lore & Symbolism

Ace of Spades – The Garden and the Serpent
Inspired by Norval Morrisseau’s depiction of Adam and Eve with the serpent, this card reflects themes of temptation, transformation, and cosmic balance. While the imagery draws from Christian allegory, it resonates with Ojibwe metaphysics, emphasizing the cyclical nature of life and the interconnectedness of all beings.

Joker – Nanabozho, the Trickster
Nanabozho, the Great Hare, is a central figure in Ojibwe storytelling—a shapeshifter, teacher, and sometimes mischief-maker. He brings fire, names the animals, and teaches humans how to live. The Joker here embodies balance through disruption. As Basil Johnston noted, “Nanabozho’s greatest gift was laughter, for it made all things bearable.”

Jack – Mishipeshu, the Great Lynx
Also known as the underwater panther, Mishipeshu is a guardian of the deep, with the body of a feline and serpent-like features. Feared and respected, this being symbolizes mystery, power, and the sacred nature of water. Often invoked in rites for protection or guidance through danger.

Queen – The Medicine Woman
Embodying wisdom, healing, and spiritual vision, this Queen channels the archetype of the seer and healer. She stands in contrast and complement to the trickster, grounded in traditional knowledge and sacred power. Her presence underscores the vital role of women in maintaining cultural and spiritual balance.

King – Binesi / Animikii, the Thunderbird
The great Thunderbird is a sky spirit, a bringer of storms and protector of truth. When he flaps his wings, thunder rolls; when he blinks, lightning flashes. In Ojibwe cosmology, he is a messenger of the Creator and guardian against evil. Johnston described the Thunderbird as “strength that watches from above,” ruling not by conquest, but by vision and divine charge.

🌱 Future Development

This project is currently in its early stages. Future plans include expanding the full deck to feature all 52 cards plus unique designs for the Jokers, Jacks, and suit symbols. Each card will continue to reflect the spiritual and narrative essence of Ojibwe cultural tradition through color, form, and storytelling.