What is Art*o*mat®?

What is Art*o*mat®? Created by Clark Whittington in 1997, Art*o*mat® machines are retired cigarette machines that have been converted to VEND ART! For only $5 you can collect paintings, drawings, sculpture, photography, jewelry, glass, mixed media and more -all the size of a pack of cigarettes. There are over 100 active machines in various locations throughout the country. Victoria Brown (that's me), and El Centro de Santa Fe are proud to host the first machine in New Mexico which debuted in February 2013. There are now 8 machines in northern New Mexico (Santa Fe and Albuquerque area). @ARToMatNM on Facebook/Instagram

Monday, March 29, 2021

Machine (not so) Temporarily Removed From Meow Wolf

The Art-o-mat Cat guards the machine at home

 I don't need to tell you how unprecedented these times are when everyone and everything seems to be affected by the pandemic. My Art*o*mat® business is not immune. While most of my venues in Albuquerque and Santa Fe have been open and shut various times through the months (and now remain open with precautions in place), Meow Wolf has finally reopened after a full year of closure.

They do not, however, feel that having an art vending machine on their premises is safe at this time. I don't quite understand why it can't be safely used with a regular wiping-down, but alas, the decision is not up to me and Meow Wolf has made the call. I removed the bright orange sugar skull-adorned machine that I lovingly call "Dias de Los MATos" and it is currently residing at my home until it can safely return to its most popular venue.

In the meantime, the "Art*o*mat® Cat" (pictured above) is on guard, keeping an eye on it. If you visit Meow Wolf in the near future please ask about the Art*o*mat® and let them know you want it back soon!

UPDATE: The machine was permanently removed from Meow Wolf Santa Fe in March 2021.