Overview

Remedies is a conceptual deck of playing cards that explores the emotional experience of navigating healthcare, particularly for patients whose pain or symptoms have been dismissed. Inspired by my own experiences within the healthcare system, the project examines the uncertainty, repetition, and persistence that often accompany the search for answers. 

 

The deck uses the familiar structure of playing cards as a metaphor for the unpredictability of medical care. Each card features a custom botanical pattern inspired by a plant historically associated with healing, reflecting both the hope people place in treatment and the repetitive cycle of appointments, waiting, and self advocacy. Together, the collection expresses a vision of a healthcare system where every patient is listened to, believed, and treated with dignity. 

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Process

Researching Botanical Forms

Each card begins with a medicinal plant that has historically been associated with healing. I studied photographs of the plants in their natural environments, identifying distinctive shapes, textures, and growth patterns that could be translated into repeating illustrations.

Rather than creating literal botanical drawings, I interpreted each plant into a unique surface pattern. By experimenting with scale, repetition, and composition, every card developed its own visual rhythm while remaining part of a cohesive collection.

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Using Pattern as Metaphor

The repeating patterns reflect the cycles that many patients experience: waiting for appointments, repeating symptoms, trying new treatments, and continually advocating to be heard.

 

By pairing historical symbols of healing with repetitive visual systems, the deck explores the tension between hope and uncertainty. The final collection invites viewers to consider not only the beauty of these botanical forms, but also the lived experiences that inspired them.