-Sweet Thrift- (vending) mechanical bank c. 1928

This is a Stollwerk -Sweet Thrift- mechanical bank, here at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. It’s all sunshine yellow, which gives it a really happy, hopeful vibe. I can imagine the maker carefully choosing this color, thinking about the message they wanted to send—saving money can be sweet! Someone has lovingly painted roses, and a garland trails around the coin slot and little drawer, and the girls blowing bubbles on the side make me think of long summer days. I love the way the artist combines practicality with beauty, making something functional into a little piece of art. Even the way the words 'Sweet Thrift Bank' curve around the top is so charming. Think of all the other artists throughout time who've used everyday objects as inspiration, elevating the mundane to something special. It’s like the artist is whispering, "Look closer, there's beauty everywhere, even in saving your pennies."