Readymades

Definition

Readymades are ordinary manufactured objects that artists selected and designated as art, challenging traditional notions of what constitutes an artwork. This concept was a radical departure from conventional artistic practices and sought to provoke thought about artistic intention, authorship, and the nature of art itself. By presenting everyday items in an artistic context, readymades blurred the lines between art and life, which was central to movements like Dada and Surrealism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The concept of readymades was popularized by Marcel Duchamp in the early 20th century, with his iconic piece 'Fountain' being a urinal presented as art.
2. Duchamp's readymades were often selected for their everyday qualities and mundane nature, highlighting the idea that context can alter perception.
3. Readymades challenged the traditional idea of craftsmanship in art by suggesting that the artist's intention is more important than the object itself.
4. This concept played a crucial role in the development of both Dadaism and Surrealism by encouraging artists to explore new meanings and interpretations of everyday objects.
5. The legacy of readymades continues to influence contemporary art practices, prompting ongoing discussions about originality, authenticity, and artistic value.

Review Questions

• How did readymades redefine the boundaries of what could be considered art?
  • Readymades redefined the boundaries of art by introducing everyday objects into the artistic realm, challenging the notion that art must be handcrafted or aesthetically pleasing. By selecting ordinary items and presenting them as art, artists like Marcel Duchamp forced viewers to reconsider their understanding of artistic intent and value. This shift not only questioned traditional definitions but also opened the door for new forms of expression within movements like Dada and Surrealism.
• Discuss how Duchamp's readymades reflect the principles of Dadaism and Surrealism.
  • Duchamp's readymades embody key principles of both Dadaism and Surrealism by subverting conventional artistic practices and challenging societal norms. Dadaists embraced absurdity and rejected established aesthetic values, using readymades to provoke thought about art's purpose. Surrealists, on the other hand, sought to blur reality with dream-like elements, often incorporating found objects into their work. Duchamp's approach resonated with both movements' desire to explore new meanings through unconventional methods.
• Evaluate the impact of readymades on contemporary art and its ongoing relevance in today's artistic discourse.
  • The impact of readymades on contemporary art is profound, as they continue to shape discussions about authenticity, authorship, and the role of the artist. By challenging traditional notions of creativity and craftsmanship, readymades have paved the way for conceptual art practices that prioritize ideas over physical execution. In today's artistic discourse, readymades remain relevant as artists explore new ways to engage audiences with everyday objects, encouraging critical reflection on what constitutes art in an ever-evolving cultural landscape.

Related terms

Dadaism: An avant-garde art movement that emerged in the early 20th century, characterized by its rejection of traditional aesthetics and embrace of absurdity, chance, and anti-art sentiments.

Surrealism: A cultural movement that sought to resolve the contradictions between dream and reality, often using bizarre imagery and unexpected juxtapositions to challenge perceptions of reality.

Marcel Duchamp: A pivotal figure in modern art known for his role in popularizing the concept of readymades; he famously transformed everyday objects into art, most notably with works like 'Fountain' in 1917.