Art Trading Cards
~ by Beverly Koski
What is this all about?
In 1997 a Zurich artist, M.Vanci Stirnemann, originated the idea of participants
trading miniature works of art in a specific size: 2.5" X 3.5" produced on card stock
or better. The pieces should be originals, or small editions and importantly, selfproduced.
Anyone may take part. This is not about money; no currency is to change
hands. It is O.K. to trade by mail, but the preferred exchange takes place when one
trader meets another in person.
That first session in Zurich took place from April 23 to May 17, 1997. Sirnemann
himself, traded 1200 cards. Since then, groups meet in various cities around the globe.
It is a rapidly expanding phenomena of impassioned people, who mail their creations,
or preferably meet to do their exchanges. Surfing the internet will supply the curious
with contacts and locations; typically distant locations welcome visiting traders.
A session of historical interest arose on July 20, 2002 during the Moss St. paintin,
Victoria, B.C. Paula Maloney and Elizabeth Litton introduced an art trading card
session, which focused upon creating "on the spot" cards. The subject matter was
"Trade your Sole for Art" (a fake footprint). This unique idea had the participant
pressing the inked side of a fist onto a blank card and then using a finger to complete
the five toes. This was genuine print-making, not a reproductive process! Fifty such
pieces were created during three hours. Although not present, I think I can safely say
that they must have all enjoyed a wildly stimulating time of it, with ink ending up on
more than the sides of their hands and fingers.
Although the Cowichan Valley does not yet enjoy an organized group meeting,
the members of Printmakers Only (POG) have begun trading sessions for their
membership; this takes place during their monthly meetings. The nearest organized
gathering occurs during the first Sunday of each month in Victoria at the home of
Jeffrey Errick at 615 Foul Bay Road in Oak Bay. The next is scheduled for May 4th at
1 P.M. Usually there are about twenty enthusiastic men and women, who meet at that
time, and work diligently on creating cards for two hours. At 3 P.M., trading begins.
Many bring already completed cards, because the 3 or 4 cards that can be produced
during the short session is not enough to satisfy one’s desire to trade with everyone
present! The writer attends regularly and can attest to the welcome she has always
received. In February, a visiting art card trader was present, whose home is in Quebec;
thereby proving that this is a nationwide phenomenon.
Who amongst us would step forward to organize an Art Trading Card group for
our artistic population here in the Valley? All it takes is a space with tables and a
willingness to be hospitable once a month. Does your home and inclination suit this
fascinating endeavour?
~ Beverly J. Koski, Duncan, B.C. April, 2008
