If you are not familiar with Artist Trading Cards or ATCs, here's a bit of history:What are Artist Trading Cards (ATCs)?
Artist trading cards (ATCs) are miniature pieces of art that are traded around the world. Artists create, trade and collect art at organized "swap" events, either in person, online or via mail. It is a great way to meet other artists and share your work. The only official rule for ATCs is the size: 2.5" x 3.5".
How did the movement start?
In 1997, M. Vanci Stirnemann, a Swiss artist, created 1200 cards by hand as part of an exhibit. On the last day, he invited others to create their own cards and trade with him during the closing reception. After that, the movement took off as other artists organized major "swap" events! Today, there are ATC swaps in almost every major city around the world, as well as online.
How do I create ATCs?
You can use any media, materials or techniques as long as your card fits into a standard trading card sleeve. Art can be original, limited edition or series. Artists should include the following information on the back of their cards:
- Name
- Contact Info (email or address)
- Title of piece
- Number if it's part of a series
I had a lot of fun creating my card. I found it to be quick & easy, but at the same time, a bit of a challenge. I loved the fact that I can use all my little scraps since your canvas is only 2.5" x 3.5". So this made it fast to put together. But at the same time, the small size also proved to be a bit of a challenge. For my first try, I was happy with the results. I kept it clean and simple...adding a touch of washi paper, distress ink and smooch ink. Mei Lin was colored with copics - colors used are listed below.
Since these were so fun to make, I'm thinking of starting a ATC Swap!!! What do you think? If you're interested in swapping some ATCs with me, let me know either in the comments of this post, or via email and I'll coordinate it! It will be fun...Join the Movement!!! Create, swap & collect!!!
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Project Ingredients:
ATC Card : Strathmore
Paper: Washi
Inks: Memento, Distress Ink in Spun Sugar
Copics:
Hair - 100, C9, C7, C5
Skin - E50, R20
Clothes - V12, V15
Other - Yr15, YR16, BG11, BG13
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