Beginner's - ArtTrader Magazine
Beginner's - ArtTrader Magazine
Beginner's - ArtTrader Magazine
You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles
YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.
Art TRADER<br />
m a g a z i n e<br />
Preparing and Shipping Mail Art<br />
By Shelli Heinemann<br />
With thanks to Sarah Zamora and the artists of IllustratedATCs, for their contributions<br />
You’re excited about Mail Art. You’ve become educated about all things ATC. You’ve even made a few cards, and<br />
you’re eager to send them out into the wide, waiting world. Amidst the bustle of excitement and anticipation, though<br />
comes a hiccup. Cards in hand, eagerness on full throttle, you find yourself stalled, wondering, “Now what? You’re<br />
asking yourself:<br />
• What can I do to adequately “finish” my ATCs?<br />
• How do I protect my cards during shipment?<br />
• What do I need to know about shipping costs and timeframes?<br />
• How should I address and fill my envelope?<br />
Below are some tried and tested answers to your questions (plus a whole lot more) offered by seasoned Mail Art<br />
traders. Their suggestions, borne of experience, will rescue you from your uncertainty and guide you toward efficient,<br />
polished card preparation and shipment—and ultimately, toward a satisfying, successful Mail Art exchange.<br />
THE BACK STORY<br />
Mail Art may pass through many hands during its lifetime. In fact, that’s the very essence of ATCs—they’re meant<br />
to be traded and shared. So be sure to add a unique and informative backside to your art cards; one that identifies<br />
you, the artist; provides information about your card; and creates a finished, professional look. Your trading partners<br />
will appreciate the extra effort and enhanced aesthetic. And as a bonus, you’ll stay “top of mind” as a potential swap<br />
partner with those who hold your work.<br />
The Five W’s: Who, What, Where, When and Why<br />
At a minimum, ALWAYS include:<br />
• Your username (I’m “potbellyarts” on every mail art forum I visit)<br />
• Your real name (preferably first and last)<br />
Other artist info you might include:<br />
• email<br />
• City/State/Country<br />
• Website<br />
• Blog<br />
• Trading sites (e.g. IllustratedATCs.com)<br />
• Gallery sites (e.g. flickr, Deviant Art)<br />
• Signature<br />
Information about your art:<br />
• Date<br />
• Edition/Series/Number<br />
• “For:” / dedication<br />
• Swap Title (if applicable)<br />
• Card Title<br />
• Media used<br />
• Copyright notice<br />
• “Not for sale | For trade only” reminder<br />
-49-
Change language