SALINA, Kan. — A vending machine in downtown Salina is offering more than snacks and soda — it’s dispensing miniature works of art.
The Tiny Art Vending Machine, currently located at Ad Astra Books & Coffee House, has sold 893 pieces of art since its introduction in 2024 as part of the Smoky Hill River Festival. Each artwork costs $1, the same amount that participating artists receive for their contributions.
The project, organized through Salina Arts & Humanities, is designed to make local and regional art more accessible while providing a platform for artists to share their work in a unique format. Organizers say the effort continues to attract interest from both community members and visitors.
The machine is stocked with small, original artworks that fit into the same slots as traditional vending machine products. Items range from drawings and paintings to mixed-media creations.
Officials said the program highlights how community-based art projects can foster engagement by combining creativity with everyday experiences.
Call for Tiny Art Submissions
Salina Arts & Humanities is seeking small-format artworks to stock the community’s Tiny Art Vending Machine, currently located at Ad Astra Books & Coffee House.
Submission Details
- Theme: Family-friendly; creative freedom encouraged
- Format: Consistent quality, each piece hand-signed
- Size Limit: Maximum 2.75" x 4.25"
- Quantity: Minimum of 50 pieces per submission
Sample designs are being accepted on a rolling basis until available funds are exhausted.
For guidelines and submission forms, visit www.salinaarts.com under the Resources tab. Questions may be directed to Crystal Hammerschmidt at crystal.hammerschmidt@salina.org.
Organizers say the project offers artists an opportunity to showcase their work in an unconventional, accessible format while engaging the community in creative expression.