I’ve recently become interested in altered art, altered books and artist trading cards. Artist trading cards in particular can be very addictive. For those who do not know what they are, the concept of artist trading cards originated with a Swiss artist, M Vanci Stirnemann back in 1996 as a way of displaying his artwork on business cards. The idea grew and the first trading session took place in 1997. The two rules to remember when creating an artist trading card (ATC) are (1) the size must be 2.5” x 3.5”, and (2) they should be traded - not sold. Other than that, any technique or style goes! (I thought they would be a great way to use some of my beads)!

If you are interested in learning more about the origins of ATCs or viewing some that have been created by artists around the world, then check out the links below. Also, check out my Gallery of ever-growing ATCs. The idea is to take part in swaps - either face-to-face, in ATC clubs or through one of the many Internet swap groups that are around - and build up an interesting and wonderful collection of “miniature works of art” from around the world.