-Dot Stove- still bank 1970

This -Dot Stove- still bank was made by John Wright, but its exact date remains a mystery. You can see it here at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. This little stove is a marvel of miniature detail! It’s cast in iron, and the whole thing is covered in this bumpy texture that makes you want to run your fingers all over it. It’s like the opposite of smooth, mass-produced perfection; it’s got character. I love how the surface catches the light, making every little imperfection stand out. It reminds me of the way shadows dance across a landscape. Check out the raised lettering spelling "DOT" on the oven door. See how the light catches the upper edge of the letters? It's just a tiny detail, but it gives the whole piece a sense of depth and dimension. It reminds me of the work of Haim Steinbach, who also takes everyday objects and puts them in a new context, making us see them in a different light. Art is a conversation, and this little stove has a lot to say.