Vending
Art dispensers created from 'retired cigarette vending machines' increasing footprint
November 20, 2025
The movement to repurpose retired cigarette vending machines into dispensers of original artwork is gaining momentum nationwide, including a stop at the Moxy Marriott in Columbia, South Carolina.
The Art-o-mat network uses over 250 former cigarette machines, which now sell miniature, cigarette carton-sized works of art for $5 each. The products include paintings, photography and writings.
North Carolina artist Clark Whittington founded Art-o-mat in 1997 as states began banning cigarette machines from public spaces accessible to minors. The machine in Columbia is leased by the arts organization One Columbia, which has exhibited it since 2015, according to the Carolina Reporter.
The $5 price point features a clear benefit structure for artists. Creators receive $2.50 for each piece sold, while $1.50 goes to the local organization managing the machine, such as One Columbia, which often donates the funds back to participating artists.
Mia Hamilton, founder of the social media page weirdgirlinfluencer, said the machine's quick turnover of new pieces is a key factor in keeping the units active.
"The core target audience is always those creatives, and those are the people that are gonna keep coming back if the art keeps changing," Hamilton said in an interview with the Carolina Reporter.
The initiative provides an entry-level platform that helps artists produce their work on a commercial scale, offering both purpose and financial backing.
