This is the coolest concept I’ve ever heard!  I don’t know that I could personally do this, my items are a bit too big, but it’s genius anyway.

Artomat is a company that bought a bunch of old cigarette vending machines and replaced the cigs with art.  Artists are able to create miniature pieces of their work in little boxes and have them put in vending machines all over the country.  This is a great way to get your name out there, get your work seen but tons of people in all sorts of market.  The only issue?  The boxes are tiny, like REALLY tiny.  If you’re creative you can do it and what a cool way to promote yourself.

Here are the guidelines for artists considering putting their art of these cool vintage vending machines:

[ Click to enlarge ]

guidelines for artists

Here at Art*o*mat®, submissions from artists are welcome at any time. Since our project is ongoing, we are always interested in new work. We at Artists In Cellophane (A.I.C.) fully respect the rights of artistic freedom and enjoy working with artists of all levels. However, we are strict in adherence to our guidelines as any deviation from the specifications below will cause vending difficulty, logistical problems and incidental expense. Our selections are made based on effort, craftsmanship and originality. However, a key factor in our review process is how the final piece will be viewed in the hands of our buyers.

Once accepted, where your artwork is placed and in what machine is based on the needs of our venues.

Here’s how you get started:

1. Think of what you would like to produce for the project. Try to avoid any mass production process that could lessen the quality of your work. The vending process is only the beginning of your Art*o*Mat® art. Once out of the machine, your Art*o*Mat® work is a reflection of you and your art. Many pieces have been carried around the globe. So, think of approaches that do not convey “a Sunday afternoon at the copy shop”.
2. All submissions require a single vend-ready, non-returnable prototype of your art. Please do not send a prototype that is not fully rendered to the specifications below. All prototypes are inspected for suitability in the project. After inspection, they are included into the AIC permanent archives.
3. The final size should be 2 1/8″ x 3 1/4″ x 7/8″ (54mm x 82mm x 21mm). Most 2/D artists (painters, printmakers, etc) produce their pieces on wood blocks, while most 3/D artists (sculptors, jewelers, etc.) place their work in our boxes. Watercolor paper or illustration board can easily increase the thickness of standard plywood to 7/8″. If you use boxes, you must fill the package so it will be rigid and add some weight.
4. Once you are ready to begin, please download our Submission Form. If you would prefer to receive samples of our official boxes and blocks, please send a USPS Priority Mail stamp and a clearly written return label to the address below. Specify in your letter that you are requesting samples.
5. Your name and contact info is required to be clearly displayed on each piece. The most successful Art-o-mat works include support material about the artist. Think of ways to present yourself in the event someone wants to learn about your other artistic ventures. The goal of this project is to create valid, professional relationships between the artist and the patron. Keep in mind that in many cases, the Art-o-mat can be someone’s first art purchase. Artists who specifically ask “who bought me” often hear feedback and find out where their work ends up.
6. Make sure your pieces of art contain NO MAGNETS, BALLOONS, GLITTER, CONFETTI OR ITEMS PROCESSED WITH PEANUTS. No exceptions. Please use common sense and do not create work with materials that are potentially hazardous. If applicable, please label on the outside of your piece that it is rated “R” or “Small Parts-Not for Children”.
7. If you use our boxes, please assemble with white glue (not double stick tape as it will release). The final piece should feel solid enough so it will not easily crush. Packing material also adds weight, which helps the vending process. Our boxes are light and need added structure or packing material inside.
8. Wrap .003 ml acetate around each piece. Use clear “very sticky” tape to affix acetate and make sure the acetate is taut. Please do not use frosted tape or low tack labels that will release. This is important, as it will cause vending problems and incidental expense. All art must be wrapped in acetate.
9. Make a 2 X 2″ square placard to identify your column in the machine. This should be simple and clear. A brief description of your work and your name is a good place to start. Upon request, A.I.C. personnel can create placards if you are unable (or shy).
10. Print out and sign the official Submission Form (pdf) and include it with your shipment. Submission of art is confirmation that you agree to the terms and conditions stated on this site. Send your prototype to us at:

    Artists in Cellophane
    5000 Rushland Drive
    Winston-Salem NC 27104