NorthernTigress
Earth, Water, Air and Fire. Once believed to be the fundamental building blocks of the world. And, to some extent, they still are. After all, the four states of matter are solid (Earth), liquid (Water), gas (Air) and Plasma (Fire). Most people who have done some divination are familiar with the four elements; for example, the four suits of the Tarot are usually associated with the four elements. (With some minor disputes from time to time about exactly how they are associated.)
I like the way that Emily uses the classic "alchemical triangle" symbols for the elements, but adds a visual emphasis to each one. Earth has leaves coming from the corners of the triangle. Air sits in the center of a cloud. Water is surrounded by a swirling whirlpool. And Fire has flames coming from the triangle corners. The elements are always at the center of the circle, not necessarily because it is more important, but to emphasize its role as a foundation to the reading. By knowing what element is involved, a reader can build from there.
Having the image of the element extend further than the triangle itself allows for interaction with other cards, some more dramatic than others. In one reading I did here in the forum, I watched as the flame of the Fire element aligned perfectly with the body of the Butterfly Guide, adding some Fire traits to the Airy spirit guide.
I like the way that Emily uses the classic "alchemical triangle" symbols for the elements, but adds a visual emphasis to each one. Earth has leaves coming from the corners of the triangle. Air sits in the center of a cloud. Water is surrounded by a swirling whirlpool. And Fire has flames coming from the triangle corners. The elements are always at the center of the circle, not necessarily because it is more important, but to emphasize its role as a foundation to the reading. By knowing what element is involved, a reader can build from there.
Having the image of the element extend further than the triangle itself allows for interaction with other cards, some more dramatic than others. In one reading I did here in the forum, I watched as the flame of the Fire element aligned perfectly with the body of the Butterfly Guide, adding some Fire traits to the Airy spirit guide.