A unique artistic venture has emerged in Milwaukee, where three specially designed vending machines are dispensing miniature handmade artwork created by local artists. Called "The Wizards Print Snacks," these machines offer art lovers the chance to purchase small-scale creative pieces for just a few dollars, transforming the traditional vending machine experience into an artistic adventure.
Mya Giuliani, the creative force behind this innovative project and owner of River Press, developed the concept after visiting Good Things Vending in Chicago. "I've always wanted one of my own, so I kind of stumbled into building an algorithm on Facebook marketplace that sent me a lot of old school analogue vending machines," Giuliani explained. After purchasing the vintage machines, they underwent repairs and received fresh coats of whimsical purple and yellow paint to prepare them for their artistic mission.
The three machines are strategically located at various creativity hubs throughout Milwaukee, making them destinations for artistic exploration. The largest machine operates at Tooth & Nail Studio and Gallery in Bay View, an artist-run workshop space that hosts classes and opens to the public on Saturdays. A medium-sized machine can be found at Patchwork Collective, a tattoo studio in Riverwest located just down the road from River Press. The third machine completes the collection at Milwaukee's newest gallery space.
These retro-styled machines maintain their vintage charm with crank and spin dials that accept quarters or tokens, creating a nostalgic experience for users. Each turn of the crank costs either $5 or $8, with actual payments processed through cash or credit card at the businesses where the machines are housed. The machines dispense a diverse array of miniature artwork including jewelry, keychains, coasters, and make-your-own print kits, all created by local Milwaukee-area artists.
One of the most appealing aspects of this venture for participating artists is the financial arrangement. Giuliani ensures that artists retain all proceeds from their sales, making it an attractive opportunity for creative individuals. "It gives [artists] kind of parameters to work under, and that can make art really interesting," Giuliani noted. "Also for a lot of folks this is their first time selling art professionally, so they're getting kind of a trial into that world without a big commitment."
The project has been warmly received by both business owners and customers. Sydney Lange, owner of Patchwork Collective, expressed enthusiasm for the addition to their tattoo studio. Although the studio operates by appointment only, Lange welcomes anyone who wants to use the vending machine. "It feels very Milwaukee, especially having local artists," Lange shared. "Our customers really love it." The studio is happy to open their doors to art enthusiasts specifically wanting to use the machine.
Beyond the vending machines, River Press gallery has established itself as a comprehensive destination for local art. Living up to its name, the gallery boasts Milwaukee's largest print selection, featuring work from approximately 50 local artists. The inventory extends far beyond prints to include accessories, clothing, sun catchers, pins, drawings, stickers, and much more, with prices ranging from $5 to $300. Giuliani describes their curatorial approach as seeking accessible art, noting, "The term many would use is lowbrow... but really what I'm looking for is just something that's accessible."
River Press continues to expand its artistic offerings through rotating gallery installations in its micro gallery space. The current exhibition, "Life Should Make More Sense Than This" by Sarah Jane Sutterfield, runs through November 1st. An opening reception for this exhibit was scheduled for Friday, August 29th from 5 to 9 p.m., providing the community with opportunities to engage with local artwork in a traditional gallery setting.
Giuliani remains open to expanding the vending machine project and continues accepting applications from local artists interested in participating. This initiative represents a creative fusion of accessibility and artistry, making local Milwaukee artwork available through an unconventional but engaging medium. The project successfully bridges the gap between traditional art sales and innovative retail experiences, while supporting the local creative community and providing art lovers with an entertaining way to discover new artists and affordable pieces.
