The Popularity of ACEOs (Art Cards, Editions and Originals): Why So Collectible?

ACEOs are "Art Cards, Editions and Originals". They are almost the same as "ATCs", which are "Artist Trading Cards", with the exception that ATCs can be sold rather than traded.

The size of a standard trading card, these pocket sized works of art measure 2.5" x 3.5" (64 x 89 mm). Their popularity is world-wide and include artists of every conceivable medium. It is important to be aware of what you're getting if you decide to pursue this hot new hobby. Art Cards come in 'Original', 'Limited Edition' and 'Open-Editions'.

'Original' means the artwork is a 100% original creation and one-of-a-kind by the artist. An original card is the most valuable.

'Editions' or "Limited Editions" are prints or reproductions of a limited number. No more above that number will ever be printed or sold. Limited Editions are the 2nd most valuable. These cards normally have the artwork on one side and the artist's information on the back.

This information might include the edition number, the date the piece was created or completed, the title, and the artist's signature. The artist's email address might also be included so that the buyer or 'tradee' may contact him with questions about the card's creation method or other information.

Finally, 'Open Editions' are prints or reproductions that can be continually reprinted without limitation depending on the demand for the card. They can also be a mini-print of a larger original piece of artwork.

How Did it all begin?

According to Art-Cards.org -

'Art cards or miniatures were the rage in the 16th century. They were mostly portraits and they were sold, not traded or given away. They were the first wallet "photos". Men would have nudes painted of their Mistresses on art cards (without their wives knowing)--usually by the same Artist that would do the big family portraits of their wives. Miniature Portraits would be used for exchange when rich people arranged marriages...'

'...The French artists were the first to come up with advertisement on the art cards. It wasn't until the mid-1700's that the English picked up on the idea of using the Art cards for advertising. The Art Cards of Europe are slightly larger than ours as is their standard deck of playing cards is much larger than ours.
During the Impressionist Age artists traded art cards among themselves to study each other's style and techniques. They also traded or sold the art cards as necessary for supplies, food and lodging...'

Studying styles and techniques is still a great way for artist today to make use of these cards. In fact artists of all kinds are getting involved. Collage and fabric artists, quilters, mixed-media, dollmakers, paper artists and anyone else who finds a way to make these creations at the mandatory 2.5" x 3.5" size, which is the only rule governing these cards.

If you are a watercolorist wanting to try your hand at quilting, this is a great inexpensive way to take a stab at a new medium or technique. Its a less intimidating way to enhance your skills. If you're a photographer wanting to take a stab at charcoal, you are less likely to feel the need to create a masterpiece as you would in using a larger sized sheet of paper. Artist worldwide are creating and trading these cards at meetups, trade shows, conferences, seminars, classes, retreats, or almost anyplace where their paths would cross.

If you are not an artist but would prefer to buy and collect these cards, the best place would be on ebay.
You will find cards ranging in price ranges from a few cents to several hundred dollars! Animals, as well as Mermaids, fairies, and other alluring type oif women are common themes found in the cards. The card sizes make for a formidable way to collect affordable pieces of art from very well established artist.

Art By Us is another artist site where ACEOs can be found for sale.

If you're only interested in trading ACEOs or ATCs, there are many groups that will allow you to do so.

MSN GROUPS:
http://groups.msn.com/ATCEXCHANGE

YAHOO GROUPS:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ATC_World/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/artisttradingcards/

FLICKR GROUPS:
http://www.flickr.com/groups/19552561@N00/
http://www.flickr.com/groups/48815920@N00/pool/
http://www.flickr.com/groups/95067770@N00/

A search on Google will also help you to find any new groups that pop up as the addiction and popularity of art cards continues to grow.

What to do with your cards once collected?
Once collected, the cards can be displayed in various ways. As mentioned, they are wallet sized for ease of carrying and work well in pocket-sized photo albums. Some collectors choose to display their cards like regular artwork hung in picture frames. Binders with toploading cardholder sheets is a common way some collectors choose to store their cards. These toploader sheets can normally be found wherever baseball collectibles supplies are sold.

ArtCardsWanted offers a venue for both buying/selling/and trading ATCs and ACEOs. They also provide supplies for displaying cards.

However you may choose to display your little works of art you will find that this little hobby can become very addictive and is sure to be with you for a long long time!