We had the good fortune of connecting with Andrea Furtick and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Andrea, what do you want your legacy to be?
As an artist and author, the legacy I work to leave for myself is one of mystic possibilities, creative materialization, and self expansion. Everyday, I strive to show up as a unique vision and visionary— one of whom illustrates a real life visual of turning thoughts into tangibles through the ideals of mental fortitude and the willingness to expand oneself internally. In the end, I want to prove to the world that magick truly does exist within each and every one of us… and it’s merely just waiting to be unleashed at will.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is a visual, and sometimes literal, story designed to provide a mirror of the viewer’s magick within.
From my studies, I’ve found that we are all living the same story— one of trial, error, and triumph; however, each of us have our own unique volume on this life’s “Bookshelf of Coexistence.” And because we are all on some level sharing the same experiences, I have chosen to use my work, in the most primitive way of human connection possible, as a story —and means of expression for the Afro mystic diaspora.
I began designing divination decks in 2018, with the creation of the Afro Goddess Tarot Arcanas. At that time, very few black tarot decks existed on the market, and even fewer with the representation I felt that we, of the African heritage, deserved. So, one by one (of 78) hand painted piece(s) at a time, and with intentions set on a fully traditional, yet fully melanated tarot system, I independently produced that deck via Kickstarter in 2019. Over the years, I’ve become humbled and honored that it has become a visual of powerfully positive perspectives and respected by mystics, internationally, of all ages and races.
But did the magick stop there? Absolutely not!
Following the Afro Goddess Tarot Arcanas, I went on to produce three more decks to date: The Afro Goddess Tarot Arcanas Special Edition, The Afro Goddess Oracle, and The Afro Goddess Clear Vision Duo Deck System. In tandem, I also wrote a book called The Fool’s Journey & the 56 Movements of Minor Explorations and produced one of my most beloved characters, The Supreme, into a small stock of collectable Goddess Statuettes.
So this is where the plot twists.
Although truly appreciated, by January 2022 the rapid expansion in demand for my decks, books, and novelties quite honestly outgrew my two small hands, and simultaneously my creative urges were throbbing. So recently, I accepted a contract with U.S. Games Inc. to take my decks, my projects of passion, into the mainstream literary market; and quite honestly, I truly can’t explain how that makes the little girl inside of me from South Carolina feel. Marvelous—just, marvelous.
Marvelous and free— free to do more, to be more, and most importantly free to turn the page.
So what’s on my next page? Toys!
Inspired by the now hundreds of characters I’ve created throughout my divination design career, I’m now thrilled to be amidst launching The Afro Goddess Warrior Doll Collection with the creation of my first doll, Nova: Goddess of the Universe.
Indie production is not easy. It’s hard work and often a terrifying process leading to terrific results. And even though this idea has taken over five years to materialize, I know this is the next chapter; and I’m ready to write it.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Being married with kids, I usually only pop out in the city to EAT, and I love having a good ole’ Atlanta brunch with my best friend whom visits from California regularly. I have a few choice spots that satisfy our mutual love of exquisite seafood, creole dishes, and beautiful cocktails!
Blu Seafood is one of our favorite places to go! The towering seafood dishes, the lamb chops, the drinks—the ambience!
The Real Milk and Honey (in College Park) also never disappoints. I recommended literally everything. It’s such a fun spot.
When in Sandy Springs, one must visit The Select. They have a Rose Oil CBD drink that is just as much as an experience as their gorgeous decor.
And last, but definitely not least, a fancy brunch in “The Rich Room” of Breakfast at Barney’s must be had. This food is magnificent, staff AMAZING, and decor…top tier.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
In the story of my life, there has been many valiant characters that steered me upon my path— however none more influential than my dearest husband, Steven. The balance and support he has given to my footing on this path has been indescribably selfless and has truly been the superpower behind my bold strides at success. His strength has indeed allowed my creativity to flourish, and for that I am forever grateful.
Website: https://theafrogoddessconnection.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theafrogoddessconnection/?hl=en
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreafurtick/
Other: For more information on our October Kickstarter for the Nova: Goddess of the Universe Doll: https://mailchi.mp/4795667a7220/nova-lauch-notification-list For mainstream release details of Th Afro Goddess Divination Collection in a store near you: https://mailchi.mp/d14ab67b0598/afro-goddess-divination-cards-launch-alert-sign-up