Julia Schimautz's Color Index Playing Cards Reveal Hidden Animation

Julia Schimautz, an Austrian graphic designer and printmaker, has teamed up with Small Wonder CPH from Copenhagen to produce Color Index, a unique deck of playing cards. This deck, which maintains traditional card markings, showcases vibrant color fields that transition gradually, revealing large suit symbols. When riffled, the cards create a dynamic image that only appears through user engagement. Schimautz, who operates DTAN Studio in Berlin, is recognized for her focus on experimentation and the tangible qualities of printed materials, particularly influenced by printmaking and Riso printing. The deck is crafted from FSC-certified black-core paper with vegetable-based inks and features a linen texture, merging classic poker design with a striking graphic aesthetic. Color Index was highlighted on designboom.