by Alison Heathcote - Published: July, 2026

Announcing my Artist Trading Club

Where Creativity Happens

There is something rather magical about creating alongside other people.

Not because the artwork has to be perfect, but because creativity seems to grow when it is shared.

A conversation begins.

Someone tries a new technique.

Another person discovers a different way of seeing the world.

Before long, a simple afternoon has become something memorable.

At Heathcote Living, I believe creativity is not about becoming a great artist, but rather about living a meaningful life, making beautiful things and sharing moments of connection with others.

With that thought in mind, I am delighted to introduce my  Artist Trading Club in downtown Vancouver

A New Creative Gathering in Vancouver

This is a new seasonal gathering in downtown Vancouver for people who enjoy creating small works of art, spending time with other creative souls and, if they wish, swapping Artist Trading Cards.

No artistic experience is required.

If you can hold a pencil, enjoy making things and would like to spend a pleasant afternoon with like-minded people, you are warmly welcome.

What Are Artist Trading Cards?

Miniature Art

Artist Trading Cards, often called ATCs, are original miniature works of art measuring just two and a half by three and a half inches.

Think of them as tiny canvases filled with imagination.

Handmade

Each card is handmade. You might use watercolor, colored pencils, collage, ink, acrylic paint, rubber stamps or mixed media. There are no rules about style, only that the artwork is your own.

The tradition is that these little artworks are traded rather than sold. Every swap is an exchange of creativity between two artists.

Artist Trading Cards have been enjoyed by creatives around the world for many years and have become a wonderful way to share art in a small and meaningful format.

Why Start a Club?

Creating Together

Many of us spend our creative time working alone.

While there is joy in that quiet space, there is also something wonderful about sitting around a table with a cup of tea, opening a sketchbook and making art together.

Not a Class

The Heathcote Living Artist Trading Club is not a class.

There are no lessons to follow and no pressure to produce a masterpiece.

Welcoming Space

It is simply a welcoming place where we can gather, create, chat, encourage one another and enjoy making art.

My hope is that you leave feeling inspired, creatively refreshed and perhaps having made a few new friends.

A Seasonal Rhythm

Four Times a Year

Rather than meeting every month, our club will gather once each season.

That feels right to me.

At Heathcote Living I believe the seasons offer a gentle rhythm to our lives. Each one brings different colours, different moods and different inspiration.

Every gathering will celebrate the season we are in, with an optional theme for anyone who would like a little creative inspiration.

Themes

Possible themes might include:

• Summer Gardens
• Autumn Harvest
• Winter Stars
• Spring Blossoms

What You Need to Know

Venue

I plan to use a coffee shop in downtown Vancouver.

The gathering will be held in a private back room which I will reserve and pay for.

I hope to choose venues that are easy to reach by public transit and comfortable for everyone attending.

To support the establishment and show goodwill, I kindly ask that everyone purchase a beverage or pastry.

Cost

There is no charge to attend.

Attendance

There is no membership fee and no obligation to attend every gathering.

You are welcome to join us whenever the dates suit you.

To begin with, attendance will be limited to six people.

This may change in the future depending on interest.

Joining the Waitlist

Waitlist

At the moment I am gathering expressions of interest while I organize the venue and date.

Joining the waitlist is free and carries no commitment.

It simply means that you will be among the first to hear when our inaugural gathering is announced.

When there is enough interest, I will email everyone on the waitlist with the proposed venue and date.

Confirmation

People may then confirm whether they wish to attend.

Get-together Go Ahead

Only when I have sufficient confirmed attendees will the gathering go ahead.

As with all new adventures, we will learn together as we go.

If you have any thoughts or questions, I would love to hear from you at HeathcoteLiving@gmail.com.

Ready to join us?

Email me your name at heathcoteliving@gmail.com for the free waitlist and be the first to hear about upcoming gatherings.

What to Bring

Bring your sparkling self, as I shall, so that we can all enjoy an uplifting afternoon together.

You are welcome to bring:

• Your own pre-made Artist Trading Cards to swap
• Your favorite art supplies
• A sketchbook or journal
• Your curiosity and love of making things

Many people prefer to use their own supplies and I completely understand that.

However, I will also provide some basic cards and art materials for anyone who does not have their own.

Optional Trading

Trading is entirely optional.

You are very welcome to simply come along, create and enjoy the company.

Our First Get-Together

Summer 2026

I hope to hold our first gathering in Summer 2026.

I am penciling in a Saturday afternoon from 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm.

Proposed Agenda

Outline

1:50 pm - Arrive and purchase your beverage

2:00 pm - Welcome and introductions

2:15 pm - Creative time begins

3:30 pm - Optional Artist Trading Card swap

3:50 pm - Closing comments

3:55 pm - Tidy up

4:00 pm - Vacate the room

If there is insufficient interest for a summer launch, we shall simply postpone until the autumn.

Is This for You?

This gathering is for:

• Aspiring artists
• Journal keepers
• Crafters
• Creative souls
• Established artists
• Anyone looking for a little more creativity and connection in their life

Although Heathcote Living generally speaks to women in their third age and beyond, this club is inclusive and everyone is welcome.

Children

Unfortunately, we cannot accept children under nineteen years of age unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Please note that this is not a child-minding service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to make cards beforehand?

No.

You can create your cards during the gathering.

What if I have never made an Artist Trading Card?

Perfect.

Many people will be trying them for the first time.

Do I need expensive art supplies?

Not at all.

Basic materials will be available.

Do I have to trade my cards?

Absolutely not.

Trading is always optional.

My Vision

Creative Tradition

Perhaps this is the beginning of a new creative tradition.

• One tiny card.
• One conversation.
• One season at a time.

Only time will tell.

Creatively yours,

Alison

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Author Bio

Alison Heathcote writes about living creatively and building a meaningful life on your own terms. Through gentle reflections on solo living, home and everyday creativity, she explores how to shape a life that feels calm, intentional and deeply your own. More

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