[Update] Unfortunately Gambler’s have had to make an executive decision to cancel this project due to lack of funding thus far. The Strange Head Society deck will be printed in-house by GW at Liberty and will have it available for sale in the near future.
Have you heard of the Strange Head Society? A place where the intrigue of classical science-fiction blazes the boilers of the grim steampunk world. While all manner of science and theory are discussed at Strange Head convocations, no gathering would be complete without a high-stakes game of cards. Commemorating this deep tradition, cardist and Strange Head senior-fellow Egor Zoidberg (Egor Klyuchnyk) brings us Strange Head Playing Cards.
This intriguing, fully custom deck portrays its royalty not as human figureheads, but as ideas central to the Strange Head Society: cosmology, mortality, and tentacles- perfect for fans of contemporary steampunk comics and anime, or of “proto-steam” literature by authors such as Wells, Lovecraft, and Poe.
Thanks to the folks at Gambler’s Warehouse (GW), we had a sit down with Egor to discuss the idea behind the Strange Head Society Playing Cards, collaborating with GW, and Kickstarter.
Can you tell us about yourself and what is your design background?
My name is Egor, I’m designer from Ukraine. I studied at the Kiev Institute of Design for 5 years. Now I work as a freelancer.
The first deck I created was a Demon deck which didn`t have much success but it gave me great experience.
Also I draw posters and other stuff.
What is your inspiration behind the Strange Head Society Playing Cards? How did you come up with the idea?
First of all, it is Mike Mignola’s art. Especially “Screw-on head” comics. When I first saw this comics, I decided to do something just as cool as it. My dog – pug named Joric – became an inspiration for the Joker card.
Talk to us a bit about going from the first draft to the final version. How did you get to this finished product?
Well, I didn’t have much trouble with the ideas for this deck. I made a few sketches and began drawing immediately. The idea was so fascinating that I drew the project in two weeks.
How did you end up collaborating with Gambler’s Warehouse?
Kickstarter`s policy doesn`t allow to launch a project directly from Ukraine, so I tried to look for some ways to share my deck with the world. I posted information on some forums and then a word of mouth led me to the Gembler’s Warehouse, who launched my Strange Head Society`s deck on Kickstarter.
With all the projects competing for funding, why should potential backers choose your deck?
My deck is full of mystery, great idea, hard work and all new artwork, so it is all absolutely exclusive. You will be absolutely satisfied with this purchase.
What are your thoughts about the continuous strong growth of playing card projects on Kickstarter?
In my mind, it is because card projects gain a lot of success among other projects launched on Kickstarter. In addition to that, card games are popular throughout the world and it is fun to have your own unique deck to share it with your friends.
Finally, what are your favourite playing card decks?
To my deepest regret, the idea of original playing cards in Ukraine is not popular. Probably this is one of the reasons I decided to create my own decks. I follow the projects on Kickstarter and I really love the artwork of Federal 52.
Thanks for your time, Egor and all the best! At the time of writing, the project is only 21% funded with 16 days to go. To support the Strange Head Society Playing Cards, head to Kickstarter.
Pledge starts from $11 and the deck will be printed by the Expert Playing Card Co. on their famous Master finish. There are multiple add-ons available such as uncut sheets, poker chips, post card and art print.
