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ATC Central - The Learning Zone: Articles Why Trade ATCs? Written by Anonevyl So you’ve finally figured out what ATCs are all about – and you’re probably thinking, I am a professional/serious artist, why would I want to waste my time with this “kid stuff”? Well, the whole concept of trading art between artists isn’t new, necessarily; artists have done this sort of thing in the form of drawing in each other’s journals and the like for quite some time. Only in the case of ATCs, the format is different and the internet has broadened the group of artist to swap art with. If you are really narcissistic about your work and think everyone else’s is sub-par, odds are no one would want to trade with your inflated ego self anyway. However, if you enjoy holding someone else’s little creation in your hands and marveling at their technique or their creativity, then that is one good reason to get involved. As an artist, I have also discovered the ATC is a very invaluable tool for a number of reasons. First, it’s a good way to work out ideas for larger pieces. Think of ATCs as thumbnails. But instead of them sitting around waiting to become a coaster, they become valuable as a means of starting a little original gallery of your own - art in your pocket, a mini art collection. Another great thing about ATCs is the ability they have of helping to get you over creative blocks. Once you belong to an ATC community, you have so many other artists to bounce ideas off of, or get inspiration from. It is amazing to me how energized I am creatively after I have had a good discussion with fellow artists. The visual artist is the most likely to be reclusive, which is good for some things, not so great for others. Being active in trading ATCs helps alleviate the problems that arise from being cut off from the world too often. ATCs are also a way to loosen up a bit. They don’t have to be perfect, but keep in mind, they are like calling cards; they will leave lasting impressions of who you are as an artist to anyone who looks at them. I have started practicing and exploring new techniques and mediums: I feel less restricted with the format and I have been introduced to new applications and mediums by other artists. It’s a good reason to talk shop. ATCs are challenging. If you join swaps, there is usually a theme involved. Some are pretty simple, others a little more thought provoking. Whatever your preference, the themes help to challenge your abilities, like the assignments you used to get in art school. The format will also help you develop your artistic sensibilities since you have to figure out how to say something well in a very limited way. ATCs are calling cards. Your cards should always include contact information that is current and accurate. There is a potential to be seen as everyone who has a collection loves to show them off to anyone who might look even vaguely interested to see them. And someone who is in the art industry might be quite struck by one of your cards and then who knows… ATCs are potentially good advertising for very little investment. So – whaddya say? Pretty compelling arguments, huh? Oh – did I mention how addictive these little suckers are? Be prepared. |
Art of Anonevyl Anonevyl India ink, acrylic  Anonevyl colored pencil, acrylic  Anonevyl colored pencil, acrylic |