Variety of my artist trading cards

 Art Cards, Editions and Originals are miniature art. Fun to do and a challenge if you are used to painting big! They are also known as Artist Trading Cards.

Artist Trading Cards were originally used in the old days by artists to give to prospective customers, a bit like the business cards of today, except they were miniature originals. Nowadays, Artist Trading Cards tend to be swapped amongst artists, or still given to prospective clients as small gifts. There is one rule, they must measure 2.5 x 3.5 inches.

The Art Cards, Editions and Originals (ACEOs) are the same as Artist Trading Cards, but these are sold by Artists as either originals, or limited editions of original works. The same rule applies, they must measure 2.5 x 3.5 inches. They are a globally collectable form of art, particularly popular in America and becoming more so in Europe and here in the UK.

Art Card originals can be created using any medium:- pencils, inks, water colours, acrylics, oils or mixed media. As they are used to trade, sell or swap, it is important they are created on good sturdy papers. Mine are mostly created on 300gm water colour paper, gesso primed mount board (not too thick), or sturdy canvas paper. Special sleeves can be used to protect and display them, either individually or as sets of 9 in an A4 ring binder. I use the Ultra Pro Series of sleeves, they are lovely and clear and more importantly for collectors, they are acid free.  Click for more information on Artist Trading Cards.