If you’re anything like me, your idea of shuffling a deck of cards is cutting it in half and rearranging it. Sad, right? A basic card shuffle just isn’t built in my motor skills.
But for people who practice “cardistry,” or card flourishing, shuffling a deck has to be second-hand nature. In fact, they take cutting decks to a whole new level –and then some.
Cardistry, not to be confused with magic cards (if you do, expect flak from cardists all around), is an art form that has evolved from the practice of magic. Bicycle Cards states the first account documented was when Harry Houdini skillfully performed waterfalls and arm spreads –otherwise known as “flourishes”– to a deck of cards during his tricks. Cardistry takes that same element without the illusion of magic, and has further developed into an amalgamation of dexterity and finesse.
Vegas poker dealers have nothing on these folks. Don’t take my word for it? Then watch one of our personal faves, Claudia Seow, and let her skills do the talking.
Cardistry has reached international appeal as we see more cardistry groups appearing in Singapore and Saigon. There’s even a Facebook group of cardists called Singapore Cardistry which was created for local card flourishers to meet up and practice their craft together. Actually, you may have seen their video going viral on social media.
If you want to learn more or even want to start up your Cardistry skills, check out School of Cardistry‘s Youtube channel.
