Old Town Warrenton’s Art Studio 81 Launches Weekly Friday Night “Artist Trading Card” Gatherings

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Old Town Warrenton’s Art Studio 81 Launches Weekly Friday Night “Artist Trading Card” Gatherings

WARRENTON, VA — June 12, 2026 — Art Studio 81, a creative hub for artists in the heart of historic Old Town Warrenton, is thrilled to announce its new weekly community event dedicated to the global phenomenon of Artist Trading Cards (ATCs). Starting Fridays (June 12th) local creatives, hobbyists, and curious beginners are invited to gather every Friday evening from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM to create, swap, and collect miniature works of art.

Artist Trading Cards are tiny, original masterpieces built on a strict, universal rule: they must measure exactly 2.5 by 3.5 inches—the same size as a standard baseball card. Originating in Switzerland in 1997 as a grassroots art movement, with a core purpose being a free exchange between participants.  In order to allow for profit gain, in 2004 a spin off was started as ACEO’s (Art Cards, Editions and Originals) with the same size and concept, but allowing the artists to sell or auction these mini art works. 

Art Studio 81’s Friday evening sessions aim to bring this highly addictive, low-pressure art form to the Warrenton community. The weekly event offers a welcoming space for participants to experiment with new mediums, trade with fellow locals, and build a unique collection of original mini art.

"The beauty of Artist Trading Cards is that they completely strip away the intimidation factor of art," says Angel, Art Studio 81, Resident Artist. " A large blank canvas can be terrifying, but a piece of paper the size of a playing card invites you to just play and experiment with different ideas and mediums. Outside of the small size, there are really no rules. It’s the ultimate playground for creativity, and it brings people together in a really fun and authentic way."

Event Details:

• What: Weekly Artist Trading Card (ATC) Making & Swapping

• When: Every Friday evening from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM

• Where: Art Studio 81, Old Town Warrenton, VA, www.ArtStudio81.com

• Admission: Open to the public - basic supplies provided, but welcome to bring any other mediums you would like to explore. 

Whether you are a seasoned painter looking to use up leftover materials, a crafter wanting to try collage, or someone who hasn't picked up a paintbrush since childhood, Art Studio 81 provides the perfect Friday evening wind-down. Attendees can create individual "one-off" cards or themed series to trade with other participants on the spot.

We will also have a trading station where you can “leave a card, take a card” with other artists at different sessions. You are also welcome to visit the studio any time to make a swap. 

We will also have the option to join a themed trade.  More details can be provided if you want to go beyond the walls of the studio and trade with others nationwide, or even world wide. 

For more information about the Friday night ATC gatherings, upcoming workshop themes, or studio location details, please visit www.artstudio81.com or follow Art Studio 81 on social media at https://www.facebook.com/people/Art-Studio-81-Warrenton.

About Art Studio 81

Located in historic Old Town Warrenton, Art Studio 81 is a vibrant community space dedicated to fostering local creativity, offering workshops, and providing a collaborative environment for artists of all skill levels.
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