Pakje Kunst Amsterdam Artwork from the Vending Machine

Discover Pakje Kunst, the vending machine where you can pull out unique, handmade pieces of art. For a small amount, you support local artists and take home a surprising little masterpiece. Each machine is located in a special spot in the city and offers a fun, unexpected way to own art. Pull a pack and be surprised by mini-paintings, poems, jewelry, ceramics, or photography.

Discover Pakje Kunst in Amsterdam

While walking through Amsterdam, you might stumble upon something special: the Pakje Kunst vending machine. Not candy or cigarettes, but a small, surprising piece of art that you can take directly from the machine. The fun part? You only discover what kind of artwork you got when you open the pack.

Pakje Kunst Amsterdam – Location

Café-restaurant Amsterdam, also known as Cradam.
Watertorenplein 6, Amsterdam

Open from 10 am for coffee, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, hang out at the bar in the evening, and club nights on weekends.

What is Pakje Kunst?

Pakje Kunst is an initiative that gives local artists the chance to showcase their work to a broad audience. Everyone can own a unique piece of art without needing a big budget. For just a few euros, you can buy a small box containing an artwork. Maybe not a Rembrandt or Van Gogh, but you could discover a future star of Dutch art!

The idea was conceived by visual artist Ro-Nalt Schrauwen from Tilburg. Since 2016, dozens of machines have been placed in cities across the Netherlands, including Amsterdam. Today, more than 1,500 artists participate across 38 cities.

How it Works

The machines are converted old cigarette vending machines. Each box contains a handmade artwork about the size of a cigarette pack. It’s always a surprise what you get: a mini-painting, a poem, a small piece of jewelry, ceramics, or a photograph. Every artwork is unique.

A pack usually costs €6, most of which goes directly to the artist. That way, you support the city’s creative talents while purchasing a special keepsake.

Pakje Kunst in Amsterdam

If you’re in Amsterdam, make sure to visit one of the Pakje Kunst vending machines. Pull a pack and be amazed. Who knows? You might find a little masterpiece that adds an extra touch of magic to your visit to the city.