Friday, September 25, 2009

Checking for interest in a new idea: Art Trading Cards

I learned about Art Trading Cards (ATC) a few years ago and was fascinated by the idea of random people trading bits of their own artistic souls to each other. The basic rules of the game of ATC is the cards must measure 2 1/2" by 3 1/2". After that, what you create is only limited by your imagination. You can use traditional art media: ink, paint, colored pencils, charcoal, pastels, stamping techniques, etc. You can embroider, layer objects, decoupage, USE YOUR COMPUTER AND PHOTOSHOP (and the like), paper piecing...the sky is the limit. What I am wondering is if there is enough interest out there for me to set up ATC swaps. Is there? See a gallery of examples of ATC here , here or here (the list to the right)

If there is, this is how it would work: I would set up small groups of probably four people. You would create four Art Trading Cards and mail them in to me as would the three others in the group. I would then divide the cards up amongst the four in the group (you'd get one of your own back) and mail them out with postage that you would have provided when you sent them to me in the first place.

If you are very, VERY intersted then email me at twiddlethumbs@rocketmail.com or leave a comment. If you think this is something you might like to do this then please click the "Gotta Try It" box below.

What I'm really hoping for is that a handful of people will join me on an initial swap and then you'll all be able to see how fun it is and then we can do more groups in the future. I'd really like to have younger ages participate in the future, like a 7-12 year old group and a teen group.

I know this is a little more arts than crafts, but I hope you'll let me know what you think. I would love it if you'd consider participating. --C

2 comments:

Unknown said...

I like this idea, but I you could turn it into a way for artists to network by having an option to leave contact info, maybe written on the back of the card....sorta like artist "stats".

Twiddle Thumbs said...

That is another part of this, Sarah. In addition to sending your card, you want to include a "signature card." Something that introduces you and has contact information.
From this link: http://www.cedarseed.com/air/atc.html under "Extra things to know or do" it has more info on this.