Pocket Change: Vending Machine Exhibition

Inspired by experiences with late-20th century vending machines and the remembered anticipation of small surprise treats, Pocket Change taps into childhood nostalgia as well as our ongoing adult fascination with tiny objects. From shiny trinkets to critters, such small objects carry a sense of playfulness, delight, and recollection of those childhood treats. Each artist has created a limited edition series of small ceramic works, available for purchase through the museum’s vending machines while supplies last. Bringing that experience into AMOCA’s Vault, Pocket Change invites visitors to purchase these limited pieces from our contemporary ceramic makers. In addition to vending machine items available for purchase, the museum will also present select pieces created by the artists for viewing. Pocket Change artists include Jeffery Sun Young Park, Liyao Liao, Reilly Talbot, Nooree Kim, Sebastian Montes-Schiff, Madelynn De La Rosa, Ana Liang / Kuurimi, Allie Bonifacio, Noe Reyes, and Jane Wong. Exhibition and vending machine hours are AMOCA’s regular visitor hours; vending machine purchases will be available while supplies last. Pocket Change will be on view in the Igal & Diane Silber Vault Gallery at AMOCA from January 30–June 27, 2027.