Artists: Why Trade Artist Trading Cards (ATCs)?

Why should artists make and trade Artist Trading Cards (ATCs)?

Artist Trading Cards (ATCs), are small pieces of original artwork that measure 2 and a half inches by 3 and a half inches, the same dimensions as a deck of playing cards, and of other commercially-produced "trading cards."

Artists can actually use a card from a traditional deck of playing cards to make ATCs.

I was recently reminded of why making and trading ATCs is so enjoyable, when I started a social network dedicated to mail art, specifically to exhanging Artist Trading Cards (ATCs). I have traded hundreds of original cards with just as many artists, all over the world.

Making artists cards is not a new idea, in fact, these cards have been around since the 16th century. (Various sources)

In 1996 it was Swiss artist m. vanci stirnemann who first exchanged hundreds of handmade cards (Richmond Art Gallery). Like Picasso in his blue period, Strineman's reason for creating the cards by hand was more financial than artistic.

Here are eight very compelling reasons to trade cards.

1. Getting Started with Artist Trading Cards is easy

Artists probably already have the all the materials they need to make Artist Trading Cards (ATCs). It's just a matter of sitting down and deciding to try your hand at
making and trading Artist Trading Cards (ATCs).

2. When you trade ATCs you get some really cool mail.

There are very few times as an adult that you may actually look forward to what's in your mailbox. Those rare instances include the weeks before your birthday, or the holidays, or if you've ordered something cool and are expecting it through the mail.

When you actively trade (ATCs), each excursion to the mail box is an adventure. You may be waiting on cards for a planned exchange, or you may receive surprise ATCs or mail art from someone.

3. You Meet Artists You May Never Have Met if You Did not Trade Artist Trading Cards (ATCs)

Through the global trading of Artist Trading Cards, I have met an incredible number of quality artists and people. Some I would even call "friend," even though we only know each other through our art and our related art exchanges.