ATCs, Comox Valley Trade Show and, R.A.G. deadline Nov.1.2010

         Artist Trading Cards are miniature works of original art measuring 2 ½” x 3 ½” (6.35 x 8.89 cm) that are made to be traded.  This international art movement is intended to be are non-commercial, non-hierarchical, non- judgemental avenue for artistic exchange. The ATC movement developed out of the mail art movement and has its origins in Switzerland. There is much info out there on the web about ATCs; history, swaps, techniques, trading groups... 

    I was first introduced to ATCs back the early 90's at the ARTROPOLIS exhibition in Vancouver B.C. I was intrigued but didn't become an active ATC enthusiast until 2004. In 2007 I hosted the 'Comox Valley Trade Show', an ATC swap via mail and, exhibition in Courtenay B.C. and later on Denman Island. About 70 entries came in (1-2 sets of 9 cards), making a total 661 interesting and diverse ATCs to display and enjoy. Overall, the show/swap was a success and a learning curve personally, it was the first project like this I had hosted. Each participant sent in a set of 9 cards and received a print catalogue along with 6 exchanged cards by mail after the show came down. I kept 1 card from each set as a perk for project organizing and, the host gallery Leapenhi Paper got 1 card from each set for their collection. The show at Leapenhi Paper inspired a Comox Valley ATC group to form and, they still hold monthly swaps in Courtenay at the Zocolo Cafe.  

Here are some photos from the 'Comox Valley Trade Show' 

Denman Island Arts Centre Oct. 2007

Leapenhi Paper in Courtenay B.C. Sept. 2007

  I haven't been making ATCs as much lately but, was re-inspired when I saw that the Richmond Art Gallery ATC show deadline is fast approaching, November 1st , 2010. This is the 5th annual ATC exhibition organized by the RAG. I have contributed to this show in the past and it was a great experience. I encourage you to submit to this show! Cards will be on exhibit in the gallery November 26, 2010 - January 22, 2011 and, a closing ceremony and trading session will be held on Jan. 22, 2011.  

For more details see-  http://www.richmondartgallery.org/pdfs/ATC_2010_Call_for_Entries.pdf

or visit  http://www.richmondartgallery.org/index.php