Have You Ever Seen an Art-O-Mat? Cigarette Vending Machines Given New Life
Last weekend I came across the coolest thing! I love all things art and all things vintage, so this beautiful creation stopped me in my tracks. An Art-O-Mat!
Vintage Cigarette Vending Machines
Something you don't see anywhere anymore is a cigarette vending machine. Back when smoking was much more prevalent, these could be found in bars and restaurants, gas stations, anywhere and everywhere there was a vending machine.
Once cities started enforcing no-smoking laws, these machines became almost non-existent. The only place I ever saw them were antique stores here and there, until I visited Rock City in Chattanooga. There are over 200 of them all across the country.
Art-O-Mat Vended Fine Art
In all of it's retro glory, minus the cigarettes, was an old school vending machine with the word "Art-O-Mat" across the top in chromed cursive letters.
The machine only takes tokens that could be purchased for $5.
Inside the machine were things like polymer clay sculptures, earrings, tiny watercolor paintings, and so many more cool creations. I was intrigued by the tiny quilt made with pop culture and pop art fabric, so that's what I picked. This one was made by an artist from Ohio and was so cute!
Art-O-Matic Art Vending Machine Locations
There is only one machine in Kentucky. If you're ever in Paducah at the Mellow Mushroom, you can grab a cool piece of art from the Art-O-Mat. Here is a map of the other locations on the Art-O-Mat website. You can also find more information there if you'd like to become an Art-O-Mat Artist or host an Art-O-Mat machine. Wouldn't it be cool if we had one in Owensboro?
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