David Palladini

David Palladini is an American illustrator recognized for his influential Aquarian Tarot decks and his work in children’s literature. His artwork often reflects the flowing lines and decorative elegance associated with Art Nouveau, echoing the style of artists such as Alfons Mucha and Aubrey Beardsley.

Born in Italy and raised in the United States, Palladini’s multicultural background helped shape the imaginative quality of his work. He studied art, photography, and film at the Pratt Institute in New York. Early in his career, he worked as a photographer during the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City.

In addition to tarot, Palladini illustrated several notable books, including The Girl Who Cried Flowers by Jane Yolen, The Eyes of the Dragon by Stephen King, and Beauty: A Retelling of the Story of Beauty and the Beast by Robin McKinley. His illustrations for The Eyes of the Dragon were created using pencil and ink on Bienfang velour paper.

Later in his career, Palladini published an artistic memoir titled The Journal of an Artist, which reflects on his creative journey and lifelong commitment to art. Throughout his life he has lived and worked in locations including the Hamptons in New York, Jamaica, and France, and he continues to paint, write, and exhibit his work from his home in Newport Beach, California.