Young America Bank c. 1937

Clementine Fossek made this, ‘Young America Bank’ without a specified date, but you can feel the history in it. The overall impression is of something metallic and aged. Looking at it, I'm struck by the way Fossek renders the details with such care. Each little bank is like a miniature world, filled with tiny figures and intricate designs. I love the texture she creates with her marks, giving the impression of weathered metal and worn surfaces. Notice how the light seems to catch on the raised details, adding depth and dimension to the piece. The piece has an amazing quality, it reminds me of the work of Martín Ramírez. Both artists had an incredible ability to transform everyday materials into extraordinary works of art, imbuing them with their unique vision and imagination. Ultimately, this piece, with its quiet beauty and unassuming charm, invites us to slow down, pay attention, and appreciate the unexpected treasures that can be found in the most ordinary of places.