ART VENDING MACHINES
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Mainframe Studios is looking to commission artists to participate in a special project in partnership with Operation Downtown - art vending machines.
Mainframe Studios and Operation Downtown are partnering on a two year public art initiative that places curated art vending machines throughout Downtown Des Moines. The project is designed to increase public engagement with local artists by offering small-scale, affordable artworks in accessible public spaces.
Operation Downtown has generously provided startup funding for this initiative and will help secure host locations on a rotating basis. Mainframe will own and operate the machines and manage the open call process, inventory, and logistics. Marketing and promotional support will be provided by both Mainframe Studios and Operation Downtown.
PROJECT GOALS
Final works in the machines will represent the breadth and depth of talent in our building and serve as marketing for visitors to come connect with tenants at Mainframe. We are looking for artists who have a distinct style, are dependable, and reflect our unique creative community.
Please carefully read the project details, eligibility, and expectations below before applying.
ELIGIBILITY
- Artists must be a current tenant or studio mate of Mainframe Studios OR create work on site at a non profit tenant of Mainframe Studios..
- This opportunity is reserved for current Mainframe tenants or those served by our non profit tenants. This ensures the project meaningfully represents Mainframe Studios and reinvests in the artists who work in the building regularly and contribute to our vibrant organization.
- Works must fit within the sleeves and measure no larger than 3” X 4.5”. To ensure that machines are able to dispense items properly, works should measure 2.75" x 4.25" or smaller.
If you have any concerns about the thickness of your work bring a sample to the office and we can run a test through the machine.
- Works must be based on original artwork. Printed reproductions of larger original works are acceptable.
- A wide range of mediums are eligible. Examples include but are not limited to; handmade prints, photography, hand drawn doodles, crops of a larger work, stickers, tattoos.
- Works must be family-friendly and may not be political or graphic in nature. Profanity, nudity, Ai generated or edited designs are not eligible.
NOTES
- Artists of all levels, including those who identify as emerging, are encouraged to apply.
- Experience creating small-scale works is valuable but not required; however, applicants should clearly describe their plan for adapting their artistic practice to this scale.
- Artists are strongly encouraged to consider having a select amount of works that are unique, rare or special in some way. Think gold Pokemon Trading Cards as an example. Having a few unique/rare items will add to the novelty which aligns with the popularity of blind-box collectibles.
PROCESS
- Thirty (30) finalists will be selected to participate in the first and second round as follows:
- Fifteen (15) finalists will be selected for work placement August - October 2026.
- Fifteen (15) finalists will be selected for work placement November, 2026 - January, 2027.
- If selected, work must be delivered on time. Late works will not be accepted.
- Artists must sign a contract agreement for participation and submit a W9 to process payment.
PAYMENT
Selected artists will receive $150 in exchange for 150 small-scale works. Artists will be paid upon delivery of the final artwork on or before July 31, 2026.