Artists Exchange

Though their popularity has grown in the last decade, the roots of ATCs (Artist Trading Cards) can be found in miniature portraits and the “business cards” used by the Impressionists. The purpose of these small works of art was to help create community among artists. Hence the name and main requirement that the cards are traded, never sold.

ATCs have only two set rules which are they are traded, not sold and the size is always 2.5″ x 3.5″. They are created as single originals or small limited editions. Any medium and technique or combination thereof can be used to create the small artworks. They are ideal for showcasing an artist’s style and technique in small format with others.

The base is usually a stiff card stock but many other supports are used such as fabric, mica, clay and more. Embellishments run the gamut from simple beads to feathers to complicated resin additives. Most try and keep the thickness to a size that still allows the card to be stored in a protective sleeve.

The back of the card is usually signed. Also included is the artist’ name, contact information, website, title and number if an edition. Some artists will include notes on the piece or medium as well. Single works are referred to as originals, small runs as editions and a group of variations on a theme is called a series.

A wonderful version of ATCs that often shows up in time for the day of the dead celebrations is the ATC doll. The body is a regular sized ATC with head and limbs joined on so they fold behind for storage. Proving that imagination is the only real limit to what can be done as an ATC. There is also an emergence of 3d ATCs though many still prefer the flat ATCs to fit into the collection sleeves they use.

ATC groups will hold face to face to exchanges as well as via mail. Here are a few links where you can learn more about the fascinating world of ATCs and various neat techniques for creating them.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/artisttradingcards/

http://www.cedarseed.com/air/atc.html