Artist trading cards (ATCs) are miniature works of art created and traded worldwide. ATCs can be made by artists of any skill level – from novice students to established illustrators.
These one-of-a-kind miniature works of art can be traded, gifted to friends, or collected for personal mementos – they’re easy to create and fun for kids too!
They are small works of art
Artist trading cards (ATCs) are mini works of art measuring 2.5″ x 3″. Created and collected by artists worldwide, ATCs provide an ideal way to connect with fellow creatives while building an exclusive collection. Artist trading cards have quickly become one of the fastest-growing movements in art today, serving as an excellent introduction for young people learning drawing or painting techniques.
Artist Trading Cards (ATCs) can be created in any medium imaginable – pencil, watercolor, acrylics, and oils all have their place – often on various materials like Bristol board, masonite canvas, or even altered playing cards! Since these small cards can fit easily in plastic sleeves for mailing art or trading at ATC sessions they make ideal mail art pieces as well.
These tiny works of art are widely beloved among artists around the globe and can be exchanged both physically and virtually. Although ATCs were initially created to be traded face-to-face, trading sessions now take place online or through postal exchange. Some swaps offer themed options, while others allow you to choose your project to create. It is important that all artists respect one another when participating in ATC trading sessions; all the same, rules apply as would any exchange market.
Organizing ATC collections requires having an effective storage solution in place. A properly stored collection will protect its cards from being handled or exposed directly to sunlight, remain together, and make finding them when you want easy. There are various solutions for storage that range from single clear card sleeves and albums available at stationery shops or online shops, or single sleeves open through some dealers.
ATCs can be displayed individually or grouped together as a hanging curtain in frames. You can also place them in a binder or on shelves. Many ATC collectors keep their cards safe by keeping them in protective boxes to prevent damage to their cards.
They are a form of exchange
Artist Trading Cards (ATCs) are miniature works of art created and traded between artists of all ages. ATCs can be created with any medium or material as long as it fits flat into plastic trading card sleeves. Artists have the choice between binding their card or leaving it loose, rounding its corners, or leaving them square; also making one-off originals or limited editions.
Crafting and trading ATCs can be quite addictive. There are plenty of online groups dedicated to ATC trading, while in larger cities, organized swap sessions offer you more chances to meet other artists while getting new ideas. Plus, they make trading much more fun!
Your ATCs provide an opportunity for you to practice various techniques, from watercolor painting and pencil sketching, collage, and mixed media to using various types of paper such as textured or colorful papers – the possibilities are limitless! Plus, visiting other artists websites will often provide great ideas.
ATCs can be either one-off originals, or part of a series that explores a topic or theme. Their backside should contain details about the artist (their website address) and an artist statement detailing what inspired it and the nature of their artwork.
ATCs are also an excellent way of teaching the elements and principles of art in the classroom. You could assign each student nine ATCs that illustrate different elements and principles. When finished, have them swap with fellow classmates as this allows your students to discuss these elements creatively with one another.
They are popular with kids
Artist trading cards (ATCs), are an innovative and creative way for children to express themselves and explore different elements of art such as lines, balance, and color. ATCs can be traded with other artists or given away as gifts – these mini works of art can range from one-dimensional collages made out of paper to three-dimensional works featuring textures or found objects – creating fun and relaxing ways for them to get creative and express themselves!
Artist Trading Cards, or ATCs, can be crafted from any material as long as they fit within the dimensions of 2.5 x 3.5 inches. ATCs may be rectangular or square and feature either rounded or flat corners; on their back should include signature and any information the artist wishes to have – they can even be numbered or labeled for future reference! ATCs can be displayed a variety of ways, from an art journal page or picture frame display, to other home accents like table settings.
An ATC kit from your library can make this project simple and fun for both children and parents to participate in. Not only is this activity designed to foster creative play between parent and child, but also offers the perfect opportunity to spend time without screens while communicating directly with one another. Our ATC kits provide everything needed to get creating ATCs, with an informative guide offering step-by-step instruction to get things underway quickly and successfully.
Art trades can teach students about collaboration and respecting others’ opinions while encouraging children to express themselves creatively in a fun, non-competitive environment. Furthermore, this activity should encourage children to create their own art rather than copy another artist’s work.
COVID-19 pandemic provides families with an ideal activity. Mini works of art are usually traded directly at trading sessions or consumer shows; however, during this pandemic period they can even be sent through the mail by artists swapping with others.
They are easy to make
Artist Trading Cards, or ATCs for short, are miniature pieces of artwork created through various mediums and methods – be it drawing, painting, sewing, or even making them randomly. Some artists create cards around themes or subjects of their choosing, while others do it randomly; the cards usually measure 2.5×3.5 inches and can be traded or swapped among fellow card artists; there are a few rules you need to abide by when trading cards: flat enough to fit in plastic trading card sleeves without warping; signed and dated on the back are essential when exchanging ATCs between card artists! ATCs provide great ways for creative exploration without taking up large art projects: while providing space or time constraints when undertaking large-scale art projects – giving plenty of creative freedom!
M. Vanci Stirnemann of Switzerland originally pioneered artist trading cards as part of a conceptual art project. He hosted various in-person sessions where people could trade them directly with one another – this concept eventually expanded worldwide, becoming part of an expanding network of artist trading card enthusiasts worldwide and still widely practiced today both offline and online.
ATCs can be created using various materials, but should always be sturdy and have some thickness. Textures add visual interest and many card artists utilize paper, fabric, and ribbon in their creations – some even feature little pockets! Additional special effects may include waterfall cards with moving elements; doll cards that feature legs; fabric, or ribbon tails – whichever brings out their inner artist in everyone!
Though some may sell ATCs, most prefer trading or giving them away instead. Recipient-specific ATCs should always be exchanged; you shouldn’t give away cards that you personally created without knowing who the intended recipient will be or if you no longer enjoy creating them yourself. ATCs have even become an invaluable teaching tool in high school art classes as a means to demonstrate various techniques.
Artist trading cards are a fun and easy way to show off your artwork, no matter your skill level. Not only can they add depth and breadth to any art collection but they’re also an easy way to connect with fellow card artists! Once completed, these beautiful collectibles can also be displayed framed individually on shelves or walls for easy display.