“Art you can’t predict” Mainframe’s Art Vending Machine featured in CityView

Mini art vending machine at the Wellmark YMCA // Outside vinyl design by Ashley Mary

Jackie Wilson of Cityview discussed the power of surprise, nostalgia, and miniature art packed into the vending machines around downtown Des Moines.

Libby Crimmings, Mainframe’s community engagement coordinator, says the vending machines have become a surprising attraction for art lovers.

“It’s the nostalgia aspect when somebody puts in a quarter. We purposely made it as a surprise. There’s a lot of excitement. It’s very popular,” she said. “It’s a childlike wonder when they pull out the piece.”

Artists are also challenged to create works in a unfamiliar format leading to new discoveries.

To read the full Cityview piece please click here.

For more information on the Mini Art Vending Machines please click here.

Photo by Alyssa Leicht Studio #339.