The Museum of Art & Archaeology is seeking local artists and Mizzou alumni to showcase their creative works in an unexpected space — a refurbished vending machine.   

The museum’s Art-o-Mat is among hundreds of vintage cigarette vending machines found worldwide that dispense pocket-sized paintings, sculptures, zines, jewelry, and an assortment of other objets d’art.  

“There’s joy in the discovery of a great artist and their work,” said Clark Whittington, conceptional artist and creator of the original Art-o-Mat. “These first impressions can lead to heightened exposure and future opportunities, including art commissions.”   

For now, there is only one Missouri artist currently commissioned by Art-o-Mat, and the Museum of Art & Archaeology is eager to see more Missourians participate. 

“We’d love to support Missouri artists and our alumni by spotlighting their work,” said Marie Nau Hunter, Deputy Director of the Museum of Art and Archaeology. “We encourage them to check into the process.”   

Get started by viewing the Art-o-Mat guidelines for artists. 

The museum’s Art-o-Mat was made possible by funding provided by the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.