A vending machine sold 3,000 artworks for a dollar each

A vending machine inside Inkwell Booksellers in Minneapolis has sold nearly 3,000 pieces of art for a dollar each, with every cent going to the artist who made them. Put four quarters in, turn the wheel, and a small envelope drops with a mystery work inside. Each row holds pieces by a single artist, whose bio sits on the left side of the machine. It was built by Lilyan Lauzon, who goes by OneTiredArtist and works as community engagement manager at the store. "For new and emerging artists, it's really hard to find spaces to sell your artwork, and I wanted to make a project that was fun and collaborative for local artists," Lauzon said. Artists apply online for gallery space, and the machine gets restocked monthly. Some buyers have followed up with larger commissions. The machine takes only quarters. The staff keep plenty on hand to make change.