3 Questions with Marc Ventosa of Stellar Playing Cards

Crafted specifically for cardistry, Stellar Playing Cards is a minimalistic space-themed deck designed by Marc Ventosa recently launched on Kickstarter. The deck will be the first product from Cardinates. The essence behind the Cardinates brand name is coordination, cards, and coordinates. Marc told Kardify,

Graphic Design is actually just a hobby but that hasn't ever been an obstacle, but a challenge. The creation of the brand Cardinates has allowed me interconnecting with other people while collaborating with them.

Marc has always expressed himself through art on simple pieces of paper. We sat down with Marc for a quick Q&A prior to the launch of the Kickstarter project.

What is your inspiration behind the Stellar Playing Cards? How did you come up with the idea? How did you end up collaborating with Hanson Chien Production Co.?
Well, that's a really difficult question to answer. I think you can't hold the word of design in your hand because it's based in a whole process where inspiration acts on each step of the process. Around the visible design, I was influenced by minimalist space posters and artworks from other great artists. Then I thought of making a minimal design based on my space creativity as I always liked that theme.

The first sketch to the final color and design took about eight months. Sometime in between, HCPC comes to action. I've been in touch with Hanson Chien months before starting the project. He liked the design and decided to invest in the project, which I truly appreciated.

We first noticed Stellar Playing Cards on Instagram (@cardinates). What do you think of the cardistry community in terms of the feedback and support that you’ve been getting so far?
The cardistry community has been a great supporter. The same way they deserve quality content, you have to be consistent with the post frequency and also have to be good at tracking new release, I have a good feeling about the likings of the community.

As a creator, I've been always committed to doing my best to connect with my audience and their needs. On the other hand, Instagram is an amazing way to help spread the word and to promote your product for a future Kickstarter release.

Finally, what are your favorite flourish and playing card decks?
There are lots and lots of flourishes so it's hard to decide, even making a top three. I would say Anaconda, Funnel, Squall, and Highway. I love the motions and dynamics of all four flourishes. On playing cards, I feel really inspired by the legendary Absolut Vodka decks. Their elegant but electrifying design makes them stunning. Also, I like the feel of casino-style decks such as Wynn. It's absolutely interesting to see the growth of custom card designs, I truly hope that we will be able to discover new and completely mindblowing concepts; digital art has unimaginable coordinates and paths.

Thank you for your time, Marc and all the best. At the time of writing, Stellar Playing Cards is 70% funded with 29 days to go. Pledge starts at €12 and available now from Kickstarter.