Readymade

Definition

A readymade is an ordinary manufactured object that is designated by an artist as a work of art, challenging traditional notions of creativity and craftsmanship. This concept encourages a reevaluation of art's boundaries, emphasizing the artist's intention over the object's inherent aesthetic value. By selecting everyday items and presenting them as art, the readymade serves as a powerful tool in the exploration of new artistic expressions and philosophies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The term 'readymade' was first coined by Marcel Duchamp in the early 20th century, symbolizing a radical shift away from traditional artistic practices.
2. Duchamp's 'Fountain,' created in 1917, is one of the most iconic examples of a readymade and sparked significant debates about the nature of art and authorship.
3. Readymades often highlight the idea that art can be found in everyday objects, prompting viewers to reconsider what qualifies as art.
4. This concept has had a lasting impact on contemporary art movements, influencing artists who use found objects and challenge conventional aesthetics.
5. The readymade can be seen as a precursor to conceptual art, where the idea behind the artwork takes precedence over its physical form.

Review Questions

• How did Marcel Duchamp's use of readymades challenge traditional ideas of artistic creation and value?
  • Marcel Duchamp's use of readymades, particularly with works like 'Fountain,' challenged traditional ideas by asserting that art does not require unique craftsmanship or aesthetic beauty. By selecting ordinary objects and presenting them as art, Duchamp shifted focus from the artist's technical skill to the concept behind the work. This radical approach questioned established norms about what could be considered art, leading to broader discussions about creativity and authorship in the art world.
• In what ways do readymades relate to the rejection of traditional aesthetics within the context of modern art?
  • Readymades directly relate to the rejection of traditional aesthetics by undermining the emphasis on beauty and craftsmanship typically associated with fine art. By presenting mass-produced items as art, artists argued that aesthetic experience could be derived from the context and intention behind an object rather than its visual qualities. This shift paved the way for later movements like Dada and Surrealism, which also sought to subvert established artistic standards and explore new forms of expression.
• Evaluate how the concept of readymades has influenced contemporary artistic practices and its significance in today's art world.
  • The concept of readymades has profoundly influenced contemporary artistic practices by encouraging artists to incorporate everyday objects into their work and question conventional definitions of art. This influence can be seen in various forms, such as installation art, where found objects are repurposed to create new meanings. The significance lies in how these practices continue to challenge viewers' perceptions of creativity and authenticity, highlighting that context and intention can redefine an object's value as art in today's diverse artistic landscape.

Related terms

Duchamp: Marcel Duchamp was a French-American artist known for his pioneering contributions to the readymade concept, particularly with his famous piece 'Fountain,' which transformed a urinal into art.

Appropriation: A practice in art where existing objects or images are taken and used in a new context, often to challenge the original meaning or to create commentary.

Surrealism:

An artistic movement that sought to unlock the creative potential of the unconscious mind, often using unexpected juxtapositions and dream-like imagery.