Artist Trading Card Exhibition
by Kathy Tycholis on July 17, 2009 in
* Community News
Why are you giving it away? When first introduced to Artist Trading Cards (ATCs), the prospect of giving away an original artwork is a difficult concept for a lot of people. However, ATCs function as much more than just an artwork. They are a reminder that art is a process to be enjoyed, rather than how much an artwork is worth in dollars. ATCs require a smaller time investment compared to a large artwork yet the process often leads to new experiments or ideas. The ability to discuss your works face-to-face with other artists is an added bonus, receiving instant feedback about your art. Whether ATCs are made for an exhibition or a trading session, the key element is the exchange that takes place between artists. There are no art stars, there is no money involved. You are not giving your art away, but sharing in an exchange. The more you trade, the more you collect artworks, ideas, and contacts.
What are Artist Trading Cards? Artist Trading Cards are works of art measuring 2 ½" x 3 ½" (64 x 89 cm) that are made for trading with others. This art movement began in the 1990s in Switzerland, and has since spread all over the world. There are no restrictions on materials or subject matter, only these basic rules: ATCs must be 2 ½" x 3 ½", ATCs are NEVER sold but only traded, trade only the cards you have made yourself, and sign the back of each card with your name and/or contact information. Most Artist Trading Cards are original works of art, but they may also comprise small editions or a series.
A very important element of Artist Trading Cards is the actual trading, whether this occurs face-to-face or through the mail. Trading generates a social component where interaction and the opportunity to view different artistic styles is a key part of the process. Trading artworks also maintains the anti-commercial, non-judgemental sensibility first promoted by ATC originators, who believe art should be inclusive and free to everyone. This is especially true when trading through the mail, as you never know what you will receive.
The Richmond Art Gallery’s 4th Annual Artist Trading Card Exhibition is a display of Artist Trading Cards (ATCs) from local, national, and international participants. Since 2006, their Annual ATC Exhibition has included hands-on workshops, trading sessions, and artist talks scheduled throughout the exhibition. The closing party for the exhibit has become one of the Lower Mainland’s largest annual ATC Trading Sessions, and is a great introduction to the fun of artistic exchange!
Join this exciting art movement by creating some Artist Trading Cards for the Fourth Annual ATC Exhibition, or visit the Richmond Art Gallery from September 18 – October 30 to view the exhibition. Enter before September 4, 2009. Everyone is invited to participate, and all art techniques/media are welcome.
To see all the upcoming Artist Trading Card events at the Richmond Art Gallery, or to download an entry form for the exhibition, please visit www.richmondartgallery.org or contact gallery@richmond.ca for details.
Upcoming ATC Events for the Exhibition
4th Annual ATC Exhibition
: September 18 - October 30
Opening Celebration: Thursday, September 17, 7pm - 9pm
Submission Deadline: Postmarked by September 4, 2009
Drop-in ATC Making Sessions
: Wednesdays from 1pm - 5pm
($2 donation for art supplies) September 23, October 7 and 21
Drop-in ATC Trading Sessions
: Wednesdays from 6pm - 7:30pm
September 16 to October 21
Artist Talk
: Paul Kajander: Friday, October 30, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Closing Party Trading Session
: Friday, October 30, 7pm - 8:30pm
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