Friends,
As part of our “Freedom Families” initiative we are going to be creating Freedom Art by creating “Artist Trading Cards”!
What Are Artist Trading Cards?
Artist Trading Cards (ATCs) are small, handmade artworks designed for trading and collecting. Measuring 2.5 x 3.5 inches (64 x 89 mm)—the same size as traditional trading cards like baseball or Pokémon cards—these miniature masterpieces allow artists to showcase their creativity in a compact format.
The concept originated in 1997 with Swiss artist M. Vänçi Stirnemann. Inspired by sports trading cards, Stirnemann created 1,200 unique cards for an exhibition in Zurich, inviting visitors to craft and trade their own cards in return. This simple yet powerful idea sparked a global movement, inspiring artists of all skill levels to participate in the creation and exchange of these tiny artworks.
Following the success of Stirnemann’s exhibition, the popularity of ATCs grew rapidly. Artists worldwide began organizing “swap” events to trade cards in person or by mail. Many education conferences adapted ATCs as a wonderful way to be creative in community and commemorate the event. The rise of the internet further expanded the movement, with countless online groups and forums dedicated to ATC exchanges, connecting creatives from all corners of the globe.
The People’s Reset will now be added to the list. Find us at the ATC table open all times during the conference. People of all ages are invited to sit down, exercise their creative expression, reflect and pour their passion into a miniature work of art. The best part? You’ll give it away and make someone else’s experience meaningful and memorable.
What Are ATCs?
An Artist Trading Card (ATC) are small, handmade pieces of art created on a 2.5″ x 3.5″ card. These cards are unique, collectible mini artworks often traded or exchanged between artists, participants, and conference goers as a way to connect, share creativity, and celebrate art and make new connections. ATCs are typically created using a variety of mediums, such as painting, drawing, collage, mixed media, and collage, and reflect the each person’s personal style or a specific theme.
We look forward to welcoming you and your family to create ATC’s!
– The People’s Reset Team –