Found objects

Definition

Found objects refer to items not originally intended for artistic use that are repurposed or integrated into artistic expressions. This concept embraces a wide range of materials, from everyday household items to industrial components, transforming the ordinary into something extraordinary through creativity and context. Found objects often highlight the interplay between art and life, encouraging viewers to reconsider their relationship with the materials that surround them.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Found objects have been used in various artistic movements, including Dada and Surrealism, as a means to challenge conventional art forms.
2. In experimental music, found objects can serve as instruments, creating unique soundscapes that expand the definition of music beyond traditional instruments.
3. The use of found objects encourages sustainability in art, promoting the idea of reusing and recycling materials that might otherwise be discarded.
4. Artists like Joseph Cornell and Pablo Picasso incorporated found objects into their works, influencing the development of modern art practices.
5. In performance contexts, found objects can enhance the visual and auditory experience, making art more accessible and relatable to audiences.

Review Questions

• How do found objects challenge traditional definitions of art and music?
  • Found objects challenge traditional definitions of art and music by blurring the lines between everyday life and artistic expression. By repurposing items that were never meant to be art, artists invite viewers and listeners to rethink their understanding of creativity. In this way, found objects broaden the scope of what can be considered art or music, encouraging a more inclusive approach to artistic practice.
• Discuss the role of found objects in experimental music and how they contribute to innovative sound creation.
  • In experimental music, found objects play a pivotal role in innovative sound creation by allowing musicians to explore new textures and sonic possibilities. These items can be anything from kitchen utensils to discarded machinery, each producing distinct sounds when manipulated. By integrating found objects into their performances or compositions, artists push the boundaries of musical expression and engage audiences in fresh and unexpected ways.
• Evaluate the impact of found objects on contemporary art practices and audience engagement.
  • Found objects have significantly impacted contemporary art practices by fostering a sense of accessibility and relatability. Artists use everyday materials to create works that resonate with broader audiences, making art feel more approachable. This engagement prompts viewers to reflect on their surroundings and the inherent value of common items. Furthermore, the sustainability aspect of reusing materials aligns contemporary art with environmental consciousness, adding another layer of relevance in today's society.

Related terms

Assemblage: A form of sculpture created by combining various found objects and materials into a cohesive work of art.

Ready-Made: An everyday object presented as an artwork, famously popularized by artist Marcel Duchamp, challenging traditional notions of art.

Sound Art:

An artistic practice that utilizes sound as its primary medium, often incorporating found sounds or objects to create auditory experiences.