Exploring the Definition of Readymade Art: Beyond Conventional Perceptions

The term 'readymade art' often brings to mind an image of something mundane or utilitarian being elevated to the status of a work of art. This concept, introduced by the revolutionary artist Marcel Duchamp, continues to provoke debates about the very essence of what constitutes art. Is a readymade truly art, or is it simply an exploration of the conventional boundaries of artistic expression?

Marcel Duchamp and the Concept of Readymades

Marcel Duchamp's pivotal contribution to the art world through his concept of readymades challenges our traditional understanding of what art should be. In 1913, he submitted a urinal titled 'Fountain' to an art exhibition under a pseudonym, thereby questioning the established norms of artistic creation and presentation.

Since then, the term 'readymade' has been used to describe any ordinary object that is selected, altered, and then presented as a work of art. This could range from household items like urinals and bicycle wheels to more mundane objects such as sculptures or paintings.

How Readymades Define Art

One common argument against the classification of readymades as art is that a print or a mass-produced object lacks the creator's personal touch and originality. However, readymades are not mere copies or reproductions; they are intentionally chosen by the artist to convey a specific idea or concept, and the artist's involvement is often essential to their significance.

For instance, Andy Warhol's pop art renderings of everyday objects, such as Campbell's soup cans, challenge the notion that art must be unique and original. Warhol's works are mass-produced and yet are considered among the most influential and valuable pieces in the art world. The key lies in how these objects are presented and the context in which they are displayed.

Similarly, Jean-Michel Basquiat's works include a variety of readymades. His paintings often feature everyday objects, such as doors, TVs, and pieces of junk, which he strategically combined and painted to create powerful and meaningful works of art. This approach underscores the idea that context and manipulation are crucial factors in transforming an ordinary object into a piece of art.

The Controversy Surrounding Readymades

Despite their widespread acceptance, readymades continue to provoke debates and controversies. Some argue that they are fraudulent attempts to bypass the traditional processes of art creation. However, the impact of readymades on contemporary art cannot be overlooked. They have expanded the boundaries of what is considered art and have inspired countless artists to explore new forms of expression.

The critic and art collector, however, should not feel empowered to dismiss readymades based on personal opinions. As mentioned, the definitions and perceptions of art are deeply subjective and can vary widely from individual to individual. Marcel Duchamp’s contemporaries and critics at the time dismissed his work, but his contributions are now celebrated and recognized as fundamental to the evolution of modern art.

Art is a flexible and evolving concept, and the placement of certain works within its framework depends on collective cultural and historical contexts. What matters is that these works are created to express or communicate an idea or concept, and they have since been validated by history and the art community.

Ultimately, whether a readymade is art or not is less a matter of personal opinion and more a matter of cultural and historical validation. While one can choose to live in a world where readymades are not considered art, such a perspective is rooted in a narrow and subjective understanding of art.

Conclusion

Readymade art, originating from Marcel Duchamp's innovative approach, continues to challenge and expand our understanding of what constitutes art. Whether viewed as a deliberate form of artistic expression or a provocative challenge to established norms, readymades have left an indelible mark on the art world. As such, the debate around readymades is not merely academic but reflects a fundamental shift in how we perceive and appreciate art.