Making new friends around the world, one ATC at a time

At a recent gathering of creative souls, we found ourselves talking about the importance of inviting whimsy into our lives, especially when the world feels a little heavy.

And what’s more whimsical than Artist Trading Cards?! Like collectible baseball cards for creatives, these tiny 2.5 x 3.5 inch artworks are made to be swapped and enjoyed. Born from a 1997 mail‑art movement started by Swiss artist M. Vanci Stirnemann, Artist Trading Cards (or ATCs, as those in the know like to call them) are always traded, never sold.

So you can imagine my delight when I came across a post on Instagram from Laura Weiler’s @cutandplaced, encouraging artists and makers to drop comments, meet new people, and swap ATCs. Even better, artist Sigrun Kreuser @sk.ollage invited me to send them two of mine!

I carefully chose two of my favourite ATCs, tucked them into an envelope, and sent them on their way to Europe. Then I waited. And then…

What’s the point, you might be thinking. For me, it was the joy of waiting for something delightful to arrive. The charm of connecting with a stranger through art and paper. The sweet anticipation of snail mail — a tiny, whimsical antidote to a heavy world. I was thrilled to be part of this little international pen‑pal micro‑movement.

If this sparks something in you, you might love creating your own ATCs. I host workshops where we explore playful, low‑pressure creativity that helps to connect people in the most unexpected ways. Reach out (or send me some mail) and I’ll tell you all about it.