Found objects

Definition

Found objects are everyday items that artists repurpose and incorporate into their work, often challenging traditional notions of art and authorship. This practice invites viewers to reconsider the meaning and context of materials, connecting it to the exploration of new mediums and techniques, as well as a critical examination of established artistic traditions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Found objects became prominent in the early 20th century, particularly with movements like Dadaism and Surrealism, which sought to break from traditional artistic practices.
2. Artists use found objects to create new meanings by juxtaposing them in unexpected ways, transforming the viewer's perception of the original items.
3. The use of found objects encourages a dialogue between art and everyday life, blurring the boundaries between high art and popular culture.
4. Prominent artists known for using found objects include Pablo Picasso, who incorporated them into his collage work, and Marcel Duchamp, whose readymades revolutionized the concept of art.
5. In contemporary art, found objects continue to be used as a means of social commentary, addressing issues such as consumerism, waste, and identity.

Review Questions

• How do found objects influence the way artists engage with medium and technique in their work?
  • Found objects allow artists to experiment with different mediums and techniques by using materials that are not traditionally considered artistic. This practice expands the definition of what can be considered art, as artists can manipulate everyday items to create new forms and expressions. By repurposing these objects, they challenge conventional approaches to representation and open up new possibilities for artistic creation.
• In what ways do found objects critique traditional artistic practices and conventions?
  • Found objects serve as a critique of traditional artistic practices by undermining the idea that art must be made from 'fine' materials or adhere to specific techniques. By incorporating everyday items into their work, artists question established norms around authorship, originality, and the value of art itself. This challenges viewers to reconsider their assumptions about what constitutes art and prompts a reevaluation of artistic worth in a contemporary context.
• Evaluate the impact of found objects on contemporary art movements and their role in redefining artistic expression.
  • Found objects have significantly influenced contemporary art movements by encouraging artists to break away from conventional methods and embrace innovative approaches to creativity. By integrating everyday items into their works, artists redefine what can be considered artistic expression, making art more accessible and relevant to everyday life. This shift not only reflects changes in societal values but also fosters critical conversations about materiality, sustainability, and identity within the broader artistic landscape.

Related terms

Assemblage: A form of sculpture that combines various objects and materials, often including found objects, to create a cohesive artwork.

Dadaism:

An art movement that emerged in the early 20th century, rejecting conventional aesthetics and embracing randomness and absurdity, frequently using found objects.

Readymade: An ordinary manufactured object that an artist selects and designates as art, famously associated with Marcel Duchamp's works.