APC Prompts series 4-of-20 ATCs

creAtive altered playing cards (APC)

 

New fun and easy card game!

What are altered playing cards (APC)?

An APC is the result of creatively playing with cards unconventionally. The mindful artistic activity is based on altering cards out of a 52-plus-jokers deck. Collaboration converts its use as an artist trading card (ATC). Prompts inspire the making of an APC art piece that’s one-of-a-kind (OOAK). Exercising unlimited possibilities to alter cards is a wonderful hobby to boost thinking skills. Either side of the printed card may partially show through, parts can be cut out, or it can be completely covered with layers of gesso, paint, marker, paper, textile, foil, etc. Thickness doesn’t matter. The only rule is to have finished art measure 2.5 by 3.5 inches. Poker-size cards are just that width, but Mom’s bridge card sets and other playing cards are too narrow.

ATC front numero 4-of-20 in series

Robin perched on an ace of spades atop a green hill in front of sunrise upon blue sky; hand lettered, “the early bird gets the worm” marker art on altered playing card APC or artist trading card ATC. Art piece is attached to parchment style paper cut 2.5x3 inches printed on back for ATC info.

 

Plan, learn, grow, work, play and pray. 

My family prayed, worked, and played card games together. Childhood fascination of using a spade to dig up dirt, search for worms to bait a hook, fishing at the lake, plus all the tasks involved to create a meal with this entrée—the process is an example of how my inner creative curiosity and appetite has been satisfied. Each of our unique stories are constantly changing over time with peaks and valleys; yet, some things we have in common. My parents’ happened to have both lost their fathers at a young age. Thankfully, they lived the faith which led them to timely prioritize important things and consistently pay attention to every kind of nutrition. It’s in Baptism that the Holy Spirit provides the faith which begs for mercy and believes our Creator Jesus loves and died to cleanse all people from sin. We keep stumbling into pits and are like dirt-covered, filthy, squirmy earthworms. We need to be pulled out of the mud when we get stuck. Can you relate? Naturally, we’d deny being covered in dirt, try to hide in the mud or squirm our way out of taking responsibility for our own bad actions. Sometimes we act like we know more than God or are lost in misconception of human ability to achieve that. Since we’re easily manipulated and tempted to reject the faith that’s given to us by God’s grace, it’s important we cling to the gift for strength it provides. Faith prompts us to pray that we receive what we read, listen to, and consume of God’s powerful Word. Receiving the abundant Truth that’s infused within us, the faith transforms and creates a clean heart open to desire and seek correction. By the faith, a good conscience admits mistakes and acknowledges that we’re frequently making errors unaware. Since we don’t try and we aren’t able to do all the good that we may want to do, we’re encouraged by grace. The Spirit exposes complacency, motivates repentance and increases aspiration to be who God designed us to be. By Christ’s genuine love, our shame is covered. Innocently, perfectly, He finished what our just, loving Heavenly Father planned for our salvation. Jesus never fails to remove guilt and forget failures of those who humbly trust and confess that, by grace, He moves us forward—completely cleansed. In Divine Worship, receiving the faith’s dependence on our compassionate Savior, the Spirit provides clarity for living now and a foretaste of heaven. God’s family encourages digging into the Bible. It’s not overwhelming because within context of the church body, spiritual training enriches people in a loving, grace-filled way. I pray you’ll curiously receive the gift of faith and experience growth. It’s not too late, yet no one knows when their time is up. Upon Resurrection Day, all people will see God’s full glory. Christ has authority to identify and divide those who’ve chosen to grieve the Holy Spirit. When Jesus gathers us who are forgiven—whom He finds gratefully, reverently trusting Him for refuge—He’ll bring us into creation restored as it should be without sin, tears, or death. This will be everlasting paradise!

APC ATC back No. 4

Title of the piece: Rise and Shine • Media used: playing card, Sharpie markers & gluestick • Date created: 2.1.2024 • Artist name and signature: Elizabeth Knaus • Group or swap information: Creative Trading Cards • Artist contact info (website, email, etc.): freshretrogallery

Group or swap information is written on the back of each ATC in the series. 

Group/swap goal for this APC ATC is use of the fourth letter of the phrase creAtive trading cards. Inspiration for the 2.5x3.5" piece of art is influenced by the prompt list of 60 words under the letter A. Learn more about Prompts for Creative Artist Trading Cards. 

How to trade APC ATCs.

Card parties were commonly enjoyed by my parent’s generation. Asking a group to get together, just for the fun of it, is nearly a lost art. We can revive it by brainstorming and practicing organizational skills.  From my experience, I’ve discovered that it’s pleasantly entertaining! Actively put creativity to use by thinking of who to invite—call people or talk in-person where we work, worship, shop and play. People may want to bring a ready-made APC ATC, or make it when they arrive. Mention you want to play a new, easy game as you invite them. Provide the eats or make it a potluck. Perhaps, mention I’ll have water and you’re welcome to bring your own beverage bottle, beer, bag-o-tea. Appetizers, lunch, dessert, or dinner are options to consider. Surprises are fun with the simple ATC activity! An ATC trade event may happen at home, coffee house, brewery, restaurant, park, break room, school, church, etc. Set your mind to make ATCs for trading, then follow through.

ATC size blanks with printed backs

APC ATC 4 of 20 in series, front and back, using Prompts for Creative Artist Trading Cards.

How to be ready to give and play. 

Precise punctuality picks projects and gifts prior to birthday parties and holidays! Prompts for altered playing cards as creative ATCs are available with my full line of gifts and helpful products at FreshRetroGallery.

 

Prompts for ATC creative artist trading cards

 

Note: Once a card is pulled for making an APC ATC, it’s wise to mark the deck missing cards to avoid future use playing traditional full-deck games.