Marcel Duchamp had the right idea. He carefully chose his readymades and, with intended irony, put them on a pedestal and displayed them for general public inspection. At the time, the audience was shocked, but that’s another story. Our society has gotten over the surprise of found objects and their incorporation into art.
Today, we repurpose.
I use many objects (found and otherwise) in my work. Many of them fit right in and work well. I select my found objects with care, usually fragments that are not particularly striking by themselves, but that will work well among other elements. I suppose that some would say that there’s an art to that. Maybe. But, here’s the thing: if you don’t have a talent for choosing your junk well, you might find yourself with something that will not only speak, but could become obnoxious… and possibly take over your work, steering it away from your original intent. Don’t laugh–I speak from personal experience.
As jolie choses (beautiful things), found objects can stand boldly on their own. Chosen correctly, you have, presto, strange and powerful beauty. Chose badly and your guests will question your taste (and possibly your sanity).
To try and incorporate these found beauties into one’s artwork is just wrong. Sell this stuff on eBay, if you must, but don’t put your whole career and credibility on the line.
The lesson here (are you listening, artists?) , is to choose your junk wisely. Anything too unique, too beautiful, with too much character and you’re screwed. Go for the lackluster and dull trash rather than objet such as the rusty can resembling the face of Jesus. The use of driftwood is a prime example: what’s worse than taking nature and trying to combine it with your own cheap shot at creating a masterpiece? Better to use cat food can lids, building with them to show your genius (careful-edges are sharp!). And leave that now formless lump (trophy?) your Grandfather shot ages ago alone-the desire to use unique trash like this can easily be supplanted with a box of macaroni and some glue. You can achieve results that can be….Magnifique!
The collage/assemblage above (yes, trash was used) measures 18” X 26” X 2.5” and is entitled “Learn to Sing.” The price of this piece is $325. plus shipping.
Contact me through the email address (within my profile) if interested.
Today, we repurpose.
I use many objects (found and otherwise) in my work. Many of them fit right in and work well. I select my found objects with care, usually fragments that are not particularly striking by themselves, but that will work well among other elements. I suppose that some would say that there’s an art to that. Maybe. But, here’s the thing: if you don’t have a talent for choosing your junk well, you might find yourself with something that will not only speak, but could become obnoxious… and possibly take over your work, steering it away from your original intent. Don’t laugh–I speak from personal experience.
As jolie choses (beautiful things), found objects can stand boldly on their own. Chosen correctly, you have, presto, strange and powerful beauty. Chose badly and your guests will question your taste (and possibly your sanity).
To try and incorporate these found beauties into one’s artwork is just wrong. Sell this stuff on eBay, if you must, but don’t put your whole career and credibility on the line.
The lesson here (are you listening, artists?) , is to choose your junk wisely. Anything too unique, too beautiful, with too much character and you’re screwed. Go for the lackluster and dull trash rather than objet such as the rusty can resembling the face of Jesus. The use of driftwood is a prime example: what’s worse than taking nature and trying to combine it with your own cheap shot at creating a masterpiece? Better to use cat food can lids, building with them to show your genius (careful-edges are sharp!). And leave that now formless lump (trophy?) your Grandfather shot ages ago alone-the desire to use unique trash like this can easily be supplanted with a box of macaroni and some glue. You can achieve results that can be….Magnifique!
The collage/assemblage above (yes, trash was used) measures 18” X 26” X 2.5” and is entitled “Learn to Sing.” The price of this piece is $325. plus shipping.
Contact me through the email address (within my profile) if interested.
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