-Dog Kennel- mechanical bank c. 1970

This charming Dog Kennel mechanical bank, made by an anonymous artist, is a delightful example of how play can intersect with everyday life. The lithographed tin surface is fascinating; the textures and colors are printed onto the metal, but it still feels so immediate. Look at the little dogs peeking out of the kennel, those bright blue eyes hinting at mischief. Their grey fur is suggested by a kind of scumbled effect, giving them a fuzzy, almost palpable presence. Notice the flat red tongue, a striking contrast against the soft greys and blacks of the kennel interior. And then there's that jaunty duck on the side, legs pumping as if it's on a mission. The whole piece reminds me of Red Grooms, in its playful use of line and color to create a sense of joyful chaos. It’s a reminder that art doesn’t always have to be serious; sometimes it can just be fun, like a good game of fetch.