-First National Bank c. 20th century

Editor: Here we have "First National Bank," a metal found object dating from around the 20th century, currently residing here at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. The piece seems to exude a rather pragmatic aesthetic. The geometric and utilitarian design is pretty fascinating. What do you see in this piece through the lens of formalist art? Curator: A rigorously formal analysis yields considerable insights. Note the cylinder, its metallic construction, and how the systematic arrangement of perforations rhythmically subdivides its surface. We see evidence of wear, the metal patinated, betraying a history of interaction, usage. Editor: So, beyond the material, are you saying its physical structure informs meaning? Curator: Precisely. The cylindrical form and rigid material immediately establish a sense of containment, an enclosure that serves a specific function. Then, the ordered holes indicate a structured approach, perhaps denoting systems. A calculated progression in value? Editor: Like, its rigid exterior is as critical as the intended interior purpose? Curator: Exactly. Consider how its materiality—the unyielding nature of metal versus the flexibility of currency—influences our understanding. The markings: their scale, their spacing, their relation to each other... Each of those details shapes meaning. Editor: The text as an element in design—a layer over material—offers a clear connection to language systems and the economy it participated in. Curator: Precisely! Its linguistic legibility gives dimension to understanding this object’s past life and, more importantly, what kind of narrative still lives inside of it. A form whose function reflects ideas about the culture, a vessel made visible and still yet valuable. Editor: I never looked at it that way before! I had thought function followed form, but it is neat how that shifts just by the act of observation and recontextualization through our language about art. Curator: Yes, its symbolic vocabulary evolves as our perspective evolves; through that continued formal inspection, the piece maintains a strong relevance across time.