What's New?
Studio Blog
ACEO Blog
View Paintings
Abstracts
Still Lifes
ATC/ACEOs:
Inspirational
Vertical
Horizontal
Artist Trading Cards (ATCs) are small but complete works of art. They were originally created to be traded amongst other artists, similar to baseball cards. Now, they are sought after by collectors and bought, sold, traded by afficionados around the world.
Generally, cards made to be traded are called ATCs (Artist Trading Cards). Cards meant to be sold are called ACEOs: Art Cards, Editions, Originals. I intend mine to be sold, so technically, they are ACEOs. But I think ATC is easier to say, so that's what I call them.
So what are the rules? ATCs have one rule:
Cards must be 2 ½ X 3 ½ inches.
That's it. Even artists can remember one rule.
What do they look like? They are as individual as the artists who create them. They can be originals or prints. B&W or color. Paint? yes. Pencil? yes. Watercolor? yes. Collage? yes. Pen? Ink? Rubber stamps? Fabric? Metal? Digital? Yes, yes, yes...
Personally, I find they're a great way to get the creative juices flowing. I can test out ideas on something small first and play with new ideas. Sometimes, an ATC will turn out great and become the inspiration for something larger. Plus, they're deceptive. Something so small can sometimes take so much time.
They're a great way to get people thinking about art, talking about art, and even living with art. Take a look around for more ATCs/ACEOs. Try making a few of your own. Now what was that rule...
See more ATCs.
Art you can carry in your pocket.
What could be better?
How big are they? Here is "Stonewash" shown next to a quarter.
See more ATCs.
All text and images copyright © Karen Koch, 2008. All rights reserved.