Frequently Asked Questions

What’s going on here?
We’re using Tiny Galleries to promote art within communities. There are two ways to play. There’s a postcard swap through the US Mail which we invite everyone to play. There’s also a version with artists showing, sharing, and “buying” art with their art from kiosks. Are you familiar with Tiny Libraries? It’s like that but different. Artists are swapping art they’ve made, and all of us get to see the new art as it comes in. Art within a Tiny Gallery kiosk tends to be hyper-local and similar to work you might find in a gallery. Occasionally the mail art is sophisticated and beautiful as well, so keep an eye on that as well.

How do I get a show at the Tiny Gallery?
It’s not a “show” in a traditional sense. All the artists together are collectively curating the contents. You show your work by taking someone else’s work out of the gallery. The gallery is locked, so you’ll need to know the access code for the keypad.

How do I get the access code for the Tiny Gallery?
At the Tiny Gallery, use your phone to access our Access Code Request form. Or, if you’re ready now, just follow the instructions under “KIOSK ART START HERE.”

How do I get art from the mail swap?
Fill out the form where it says “MAIL SWAP START HERE.”

Why do I need a Gmail account to fill out the form?
Do you like free stuff? We do too. Google Forms is free. Using Google Forms is just one of the ways we are able to offer you the Tiny Galleries service for free.

How do I put my art into the Tiny Gallery?
Enter the access code on the lock’s keypad and open the cabinet. Take a piece of art out and put your art in. You’ll see we’ve provided some title cards for your use if you didn’t bring one. Please close the cabinet securely.

My art is too big.
Not a question, but we get it. Make a smaller piece of art and come back.

Can you guarantee my art will not be damaged or vandalized?
No, unfortunately. While the cabinet is weather resistant, please consider possible UV, heat or humidity damage before you install your piece. If you don’t accept the risk, please don’t play along.

Can I display my sculpture?
Please do! The cabinet is about 8″ deep. If your art is best displayed on a pedestal, please provide one. As you place your art, take a moment to arrange the other works so that your piece shares the space in a tasteful manner.

What about non-traditional media?
If you can figure out how to display it/power it then yes please.

How can I sell my work in a Tiny Gallery?
The game is to buy new art with your art. Sometimes, however, an art patron will see your work and want to purchase it directly. Make sure your contact information is on your title card. If someone contacts you directly, arrange a private sale. NOTE: you’ll have to place another piece of art in the kiosk to replace the one you’ve removed.

I want to put a price tag on my art.
Why? You just used it to buy someone else’s art. You’re done. Go home and display your new art. Stop making this hard. And stop not asking questions.

Is there a suggested value for the art?
Think of it this way: someone put a fair amount of effort, life experience, skill and talent into making that piece of art you you see in the Tiny Gallery. Surely you want to put at least that much care into making a great work of art to make the trade?

But, is there a dollar amount that is too small, and a dollar amount that is too high?
No. Yes? Maybe. Here’s the truth: Part of this “art” is to explore how you use the kiosk. Are you a taker or a giver? Do you have something important to say about our community or do you value decoration? What is “art” to you?

This is great! How can I host a Tiny Gallery at my business?
Send us a message.

Can I use the Tiny Gallery to drive people to my online store?
Great idea.

Can I make my own Tiny Gallery?
Why didn’t we think of that? Go for it! Just don’t be all possessive about it. There are probably some financial opportunities that will mature organically from this idea. If you have delusions of being the Ray Kroc of art sharing we will most certainly share some more words with you.