The History of Artist Trading Cards

Artist Trading Cards have been actively produced since the miniature portraits of the Victorian Era and then a type of business card of the Impressionistic Artists. During the Impressionist Age artists traded art cards among themselves to study each other's style and techniques. Art cards or miniatures where 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. Historically there were few standard rules or guidelines to art trading cards, and many variances in sizes can be seen in older cards. The standardization in size of baseball cards is credited with creating the standardization in size for art cards. Today the only rule for these cards is their 2.5 by 3.5 inch size (64 x 89 mm), same as baseball cards.

ACEO or Art Cards Originals and Editions, are the miniature works of art that the women of DAWG group are actively creating. ACEO's originated when some artists began to create cards to sell. The practice is meant to explore the miniature in art, circulate small works more widely, as well as to allow anyone that wants to join in the art card trend.

Make sure that you visit the artist sights listed here, to view some of these wonderful works of miniature art. With the countries financial crisis an utmost concern among all of us, our pocketbooks will definitely be tight this holiday season. I can think of no better holiday gift than a piece of original art, all at a very reasonable price. ACEO cards start as low as $4.99 with free or reasonable shipping. Most artists are willing to wrap up your purchase and mail directly to the gifts recipient in a Holiday Card. Just ask! These art cards fit nicely into an inexpensive frame made for wallet size photos or can be matted to fit a larger frame. Art is always a wise investment, and in todays troubled economy it is even more so.

Here are a few of my Fall aceo cards for you to enjoy. I am working on several new ones, as well as more Holiday Theme cards in the next months. Come view my shop often, as the cards are original and one of a kind, so you don't want to miss out on the purchase of your favorite one!