Readymades

Definition

Readymades are ordinary manufactured objects that an artist selects and designates as art, effectively transforming their context and meaning. This concept challenges traditional notions of what art can be, suggesting that the artist's intention and choice play a crucial role in the creation of meaning. Readymades embody ideas of Minimalism and Conceptual Art by emphasizing simplicity, the significance of the idea over aesthetic qualities, and the critique of art's commercialization.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Marcel Duchamp is credited with popularizing readymades in the early 20th century, most famously with his piece 'Fountain,' which was a signed urinal.
2. Readymades question the definitions of art by challenging the idea that artistry is tied to skillful craftsmanship or aesthetic beauty.
3. The selection process is essential in readymades; it is the artist's choice that gives a common object new meaning and significance.
4. In contemporary art, readymades have influenced various forms, including installations and performance art, where everyday objects and actions are recontextualized.
5. The concept has remained relevant in the 21st century, as artists continue to explore consumer culture and the role of mass-produced items in society.

Review Questions

• How do readymades challenge traditional definitions of art?
  • Readymades challenge traditional definitions of art by asserting that artistic value does not solely rely on craftsmanship or aesthetic appeal. Instead, they emphasize the importance of the artist's intention and choice in transforming an ordinary object into a work of art. This shift invites viewers to reconsider what constitutes art and opens up possibilities for a broader understanding of artistic expression.
• Discuss the relationship between readymades and Conceptual Art, providing examples of how this connection manifests.
  • Readymades are fundamentally linked to Conceptual Art as both movements prioritize ideas over aesthetic qualities. For example, Duchamp's 'Fountain' serves as a readymade that exemplifies this connection, as its value lies in the concept behind its selection rather than its appearance. In Conceptual Art, similar ideas are expressed through works that prioritize concepts or messages over traditional artistic techniques, demonstrating how readymades paved the way for more expansive interpretations of what art can be.
• Evaluate the impact of readymades on contemporary art practices and their relevance in today's artistic landscape.
  • The impact of readymades on contemporary art practices is profound, as they have influenced numerous artists to integrate everyday objects into their work, challenging conventions around originality and creativity. In today's artistic landscape, readymades remain relevant as artists engage with themes like consumer culture, identity, and social commentary through recontextualized materials. This ongoing exploration continues to push boundaries within the art world, affirming that meaning can be derived from even the most mundane aspects of everyday life.

Related terms

Dadaism: An avant-garde art movement that emerged in the early 20th century, known for its anti-art stance and use of absurdity and irrationality to challenge societal norms.

Conceptual Art: An art movement where the idea or concept behind the artwork is more important than the finished product, often leading to non-traditional forms of art.

Installation Art: A type of art that transforms a space into an immersive environment, encouraging viewers to engage with the artwork in a physical and spatial context.