5.7 Readymades
8 min read•august 19, 2024
Readymades revolutionized art in the early 20th century by turning everyday objects into art. This concept, pioneered by , challenged traditional notions of artistic skill and aesthetics, shifting focus to ideas and concepts behind artworks.
Readymades are characterized by minimal artistic intervention and the use of mass-produced items. They prioritize conceptual value over aesthetic appeal, encouraging viewers to question the nature of art and the artist's role in its creation.
Origins of readymades
- Readymades emerged as a revolutionary art form in the early 20th century, challenging traditional notions of art and the role of the artist
- The concept of readymades involves taking ordinary, mass-produced objects and presenting them as works of art with minimal artistic intervention
- Readymades played a significant role in the development of avant-garde movements such as and , which sought to subvert and question the established art world
Marcel Duchamp's influence
Top images from around the web for Marcel Duchamp's influence
Duchamp | Marcel DUCHAMP, Fontaine,1917 | Pablo Ibañez | Flickr View original
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Bicycle Wheel - Marcel Duchamp | Wagner T. Cassimiro "Aranha" | Flickr View original
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La Roue de bicyclette de Marcel Duchamp (Fondation Louis V… | Flickr View original
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Duchamp | Marcel DUCHAMP, Fontaine,1917 | Pablo Ibañez | Flickr View original
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Bicycle Wheel - Marcel Duchamp | Wagner T. Cassimiro "Aranha" | Flickr View original
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Top images from around the web for Marcel Duchamp's influence
Duchamp | Marcel DUCHAMP, Fontaine,1917 | Pablo Ibañez | Flickr View original
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Bicycle Wheel - Marcel Duchamp | Wagner T. Cassimiro "Aranha" | Flickr View original
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La Roue de bicyclette de Marcel Duchamp (Fondation Louis V… | Flickr View original
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Duchamp | Marcel DUCHAMP, Fontaine,1917 | Pablo Ibañez | Flickr View original
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Bicycle Wheel - Marcel Duchamp | Wagner T. Cassimiro "Aranha" | Flickr View original
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- French artist Marcel Duchamp is widely credited as the pioneer of readymades, introducing the concept with his iconic work "Fountain" in 1917
- Duchamp's readymades, such as "Bicycle Wheel" (1913) and "In Advance of the Broken Arm" (1915), laid the foundation for this new art form
- Duchamp's ideas about the role of the artist and the nature of art had a profound impact on the development of and later avant-garde movements
Challenging traditional art notions
- Readymades challenged the prevailing notion that art must be created by the artist's hand and possess inherent aesthetic qualities
- By presenting everyday objects as art, readymades questioned the boundaries between art and life, blurring the distinction between the two
- Readymades shifted the focus from the physical object to the ideas and concepts behind the artwork, emphasizing the intellectual and conceptual aspects of art-making
Characteristics of readymades
- Readymades are characterized by their use of mass-produced, everyday objects as the basis for artworks, often with little to no modification by the artist
- The selection and presentation of the object as art is the primary artistic gesture, rather than the creation of a new object from scratch
- Readymades challenge traditional notions of artistic skill, craftsmanship, and the unique, hand-made nature of art objects
Mass-produced objects as art
- Readymades often consist of commercially manufactured items, such as household objects, tools, or consumer goods (urinals, bottle racks, combs)
- By presenting these mass-produced objects as art, readymades question the value and uniqueness typically associated with art objects
- The use of everyday objects also serves to democratize art, making it more accessible and relatable to a wider audience
Minimal artistic intervention
- In creating readymades, artists often make little to no modifications to the original object, presenting it largely in its found state
- The artistic intervention lies primarily in the selection, presentation, and of the object within an art context
- This minimal intervention challenges traditional notions of artistic skill and craftsmanship, emphasizing the conceptual aspects of the artwork
Conceptual vs aesthetic value
- Readymades prioritize the conceptual value of the artwork over its aesthetic qualities, challenging the idea that art must be visually pleasing or beautiful
- The meaning and significance of a readymade often lie in the ideas, context, and intellectual framework surrounding the object, rather than its physical appearance
- Readymades encourage viewers to engage with the artwork on a conceptual level, questioning their preconceptions about art and the role of the artist
Notable examples of readymades
- Throughout the 20th century, various artists have created iconic readymades that have become pivotal works in the history of avant-garde art
- These examples demonstrate the diverse range of objects and approaches employed in the creation of readymades, as well as their enduring impact on the art world
Duchamp's Fountain (1917)
- Marcel Duchamp's "Fountain" is perhaps the most famous and controversial readymade, consisting of a porcelain urinal signed with the pseudonym "R. Mutt"
- Submitted to the Society of Independent Artists exhibition in 1917, "Fountain" was rejected, sparking debates about the nature and definition of art
- The work challenged traditional notions of artistic skill and aesthetics, and has since become an iconic symbol of the avant-garde and conceptual art movements
Man Ray's Gift (1921)
- American artist created "Gift," a readymade consisting of a flat iron with a row of brass tacks glued to its surface
- The juxtaposition of the everyday object with the potentially dangerous tacks creates a sense of tension and absurdity, characteristic of Surrealist art
- "Gift" exemplifies the Surrealist interest in subverting the ordinary and exploring the unconscious mind through unexpected combinations of objects
Meret Oppenheim's Object (1936)
- Swiss artist Meret Oppenheim's "Object" is a surrealist readymade consisting of a teacup, saucer, and spoon covered in gazelle fur
- The work, also known as "Breakfast in Fur," plays with the contrast between the domestic and the exotic, the familiar and the uncanny
- "Object" has become an iconic example of Surrealist art, challenging viewers' perceptions and expectations of everyday objects and materials
Readymades vs found objects
- While readymades and are both forms of art that incorporate pre-existing objects, there are key differences between the two concepts
- Understanding these distinctions is crucial for appreciating the unique characteristics and artistic intentions behind readymades and found objects
Differences in artistic intervention
- Readymades typically involve minimal artistic intervention, with the artist making little to no modifications to the original object
- Found objects, on the other hand, often undergo more significant transformations, with the artist altering, combining, or repurposing the objects to create a new artwork
- The level of artistic intervention is a key factor in distinguishing between readymades and found objects
Readymades as manufactured items
- Readymades are specifically defined as mass-produced, commercially manufactured objects that are presented as art with minimal alteration
- The use of industrially produced items is central to the concept of readymades, as it challenges traditional notions of artistic creation and uniqueness
- Examples of readymades often include household items, tools, or consumer goods (bicycle wheels, shovels, clothing)
Found objects as natural materials
- Found objects encompass a broader range of materials, including both manufactured items and natural objects discovered by the artist
- Artists working with found objects may incorporate elements such as driftwood, stones, bones, or discarded materials into their artworks
- The use of natural materials in found object art often evokes themes of nature, decay, and the passage of time, in contrast to the industrial associations of readymades
Impact on art world
- The introduction of readymades had a profound and lasting impact on the art world, challenging traditional notions of art and paving the way for new artistic movements and practices
- Readymades played a crucial role in the development of conceptual art and continue to influence contemporary artists and art discourse
Questioning art's definition
- Readymades fundamentally challenged the definition of art, blurring the boundaries between art and everyday objects
- By presenting mass-produced items as art, readymades questioned the traditional emphasis on artistic skill, craftsmanship, and the unique, hand-made nature of art objects
- Readymades expanded the possibilities of what could be considered art, opening up new avenues for artistic expression and interpretation
Influence on conceptual art
- Readymades were a key precursor to the development of conceptual art in the 1960s and 1970s
- Conceptual artists built upon the ideas introduced by readymades, prioritizing the concept and intellectual framework behind the artwork over its physical form
- The legacy of readymades can be seen in the work of conceptual artists such as Joseph Kosuth, Lawrence Weiner, and Sol LeWitt, who emphasized the primacy of ideas in art
Legacy in contemporary art practices
- The influence of readymades extends to contemporary art practices, with many artists continuing to incorporate found objects and mass-produced items into their work
- Contemporary artists such as Damien Hirst, Jeff Koons, and Ai Weiwei have created works that engage with the readymade tradition, often on a monumental scale or with a critical, socio-political edge
- Readymades have also influenced the development of other art forms, such as installation art and , which often incorporate everyday objects and materials
Controversies surrounding readymades
- Since their inception, readymades have been the subject of various controversies and debates within the art world
- These controversies have centered around questions of artistic skill, authorship, and the role of art in society
Challenging traditional skill and craft
- Readymades challenged traditional notions of artistic skill and craftsmanship, as they often involved little to no modification of the original object by the artist
- Critics argued that readymades required minimal artistic talent or effort, and therefore did not qualify as genuine works of art
- Defenders of readymades countered that the artistic value lay in the conceptual and intellectual aspects of the work, rather than the physical skill involved in its creation
Debates on artistic authorship
- Readymades raised questions about artistic authorship and originality, as they often consisted of pre-existing, mass-produced objects
- Some critics argued that readymades lacked originality and were merely appropriations of existing objects, rather than genuine artistic creations
- Proponents of readymades maintained that the artist's choice and presentation of the object constituted a valid artistic gesture, and that authorship lay in the conceptual framework surrounding the work
Accusations of anti-art sentiment
- Readymades were sometimes accused of embodying an sentiment, as they seemed to reject traditional artistic values and techniques
- Critics argued that readymades represented a nihilistic or destructive approach to art, undermining the very foundations of artistic practice
- Supporters of readymades, however, saw them as a means of expanding the boundaries of art and challenging established conventions, rather than a rejection of art itself
Readymades in art market
- The unique nature of readymades has posed challenges for the art market, particularly in terms of valuation, authentication, and the production of replicas or editions
- Despite these challenges, readymades have become highly sought-after by collectors and museums, with many iconic works commanding significant prices at auction
Valuation and authentication issues
- The valuation of readymades can be complex, as their worth is often tied to their conceptual significance and historical context, rather than their material value or rarity
- Authenticating readymades can also be challenging, particularly in cases where the original object has been lost or destroyed, or where multiple versions or replicas exist
- The art market has had to adapt to these unique characteristics of readymades, developing new strategies for assessing and verifying the authenticity and value of these works
Replicas and editions
- Many readymades have been reproduced as replicas or editions, either by the original artist or by others with the artist's authorization
- The production of replicas raises questions about the nature of the artwork and the role of the artist, as the replicas may be physically identical to the original, but lack the same conceptual and historical significance
- The art market has had to grapple with the status and value of these replicas, which may be seen as secondary to the original work, but still hold importance as part of the artist's oeuvre
Collector and museum interest
- Despite the challenges posed by readymades, they have become highly sought-after by collectors and museums, who recognize their historical and conceptual significance
- Many iconic readymades, such as Duchamp's "Fountain" and Man Ray's "Gift," are held in major museum collections around the world
- The acquisition and display of readymades by museums has helped to cement their status as important works of art, and has contributed to their ongoing influence on contemporary art practices
Key Terms to Review (18)
Aesthetic of the ordinary: The aesthetic of the ordinary refers to the appreciation and elevation of everyday objects and experiences, transforming mundane aspects of life into subjects worthy of artistic consideration. This approach emphasizes the beauty found in simplicity and routine, allowing artists to challenge traditional notions of what constitutes art by showcasing the overlooked elements of daily life. Through this lens, art becomes a reflection of real-world experiences and highlights the significance of the commonplace.
Anti-art: Anti-art is a concept in the art world that challenges traditional definitions and standards of what constitutes art, often by using absurdity, irony, and unconventional methods. This movement emerged in response to the established art norms, aiming to provoke thought and discussion about the nature and purpose of art itself.
Art as a concept: Art as a concept refers to the understanding that art can transcend traditional forms and mediums, focusing instead on ideas, context, and the viewer's perception. This perspective emphasizes that the essence of art lies in the concepts behind it rather than merely the aesthetic qualities or materials used. This shift in understanding allows for a broader interpretation of what constitutes art, influencing various movements and challenging established norms.
Assemblage: Assemblage is an artistic process that involves combining diverse objects and materials to create a cohesive work of art. This approach emphasizes the transformation of found or repurposed items, highlighting their intrinsic meanings and the relationships between them. Assemblage encourages a break from traditional artistic practices, promoting spontaneity and experimentation while often challenging conventional definitions of art.
Conceptual art: Conceptual art is an art movement where the idea or concept behind the work takes precedence over traditional aesthetic and material concerns. This approach emphasizes the artist's thought process and intentions, often challenging conventional definitions of art and questioning what constitutes artistic value.
Contextualization: Contextualization is the practice of understanding and interpreting a work of art within its historical, cultural, and social circumstances. This approach helps to clarify how external factors influence the meaning and value of the artwork, particularly in relation to its creation and reception.
Dada: Dada was an avant-garde art movement that emerged in the early 20th century, characterized by its rejection of traditional aesthetics and its embrace of absurdity, chaos, and spontaneity. Dada challenged the conventions of art and society, often using humor and irony to critique the established norms during a time of great social and political upheaval.
Dada Manifesto: The Dada Manifesto is a foundational text of the Dada movement, expressing its anti-art ideology and revolutionary spirit. Written in 1916 by Hugo Ball, it rejected traditional aesthetics and societal norms, advocating for chaos, absurdity, and spontaneity as artistic values. This manifesto connected various Dada artists and their works, highlighting themes of anti-art, subversion, and the embrace of chance in creative processes.
Found objects: Found objects are everyday items or materials that artists incorporate into their work, often challenging traditional notions of art and aesthetics. By using these objects, artists can evoke deeper meanings, question consumer culture, and break down the boundaries between art and life. This approach emphasizes the importance of context and the idea that art can be made from anything around us.
Industrial Revolution: The Industrial Revolution was a period of significant economic, technological, and social change that began in the late 18th century and continued into the 19th century, marked by the transition from agrarian economies to industrialized and urban societies. This era brought about innovations in manufacturing processes, transportation, and communication, transforming the way people lived and worked, and ultimately influencing various art movements.
Institutional critique: Institutional critique is an art practice that questions and examines the structures and systems that govern the art world, including galleries, museums, and the market itself. It seeks to reveal how these institutions shape the production, distribution, and reception of art, often challenging traditional power dynamics and highlighting the role of context in understanding artistic value. This approach has been utilized by various artists to provoke discussions about the very frameworks that dictate how art is perceived and valued.
Man Ray: Man Ray was an influential American visual artist and photographer known for his contributions to the Dada and Surrealist movements. He is best recognized for his innovative use of photography, particularly his creation of 'rayographs,' and his collaborations with other prominent artists, including Marcel Duchamp. Man Ray's work challenged traditional notions of art and photography, aligning closely with the ideas of readymades and the avant-garde spirit of experimentation.
Marcel Duchamp: Marcel Duchamp was a French-American artist known for his influential contributions to the Dada and Surrealist movements, particularly through his concept of the readymade. His work challenged traditional notions of art, aesthetics, and creativity, encouraging others to question the very definition of what constitutes art itself.
Postmodernism: Postmodernism is an artistic, cultural, and intellectual movement that emerged in the mid-20th century, characterized by a skeptical approach to narratives and ideologies of modernism, embracing fragmentation, irony, and the blurring of boundaries between high and low culture. This movement questions the very nature of art and its meaning, often leading to playful, experimental works that challenge traditional forms and concepts.
Recontextualization: Recontextualization refers to the practice of taking an object, concept, or artwork out of its original context and placing it in a new setting, which alters its meaning and significance. This process encourages viewers to see familiar items from a fresh perspective and can challenge traditional notions of art, value, and culture. It is especially relevant in contemporary art, where the act of recontextualizing can provoke thought, critique, and dialogue.
Surrealism: Surrealism is an avant-garde cultural movement that emerged in the early 20th century, emphasizing the exploration of the unconscious mind and the juxtaposition of unexpected elements to challenge rationality. It sought to release creativity from the constraints of logic and convention, often manifesting in dream-like imagery and bizarre scenarios that reveal deeper truths about human experience.
The Armory Show: The Armory Show, held in 1913 in New York City, was a groundbreaking art exhibition that introduced American audiences to European avant-garde art. It showcased works from prominent modern artists and challenged traditional artistic conventions, significantly impacting the perception of modern art in America. This event also highlighted the emergence of readymades, the influence of mass media and consumerism on art, and the spirit of anti-art that characterized the avant-garde movements of the time.
World War I: World War I was a global conflict that lasted from 1914 to 1918, involving many of the world's great powers and resulting in significant political, social, and cultural upheaval. The war dramatically influenced art movements, particularly in Europe, as artists sought to express their experiences and reactions to the chaos and destruction surrounding them.