Why Found-Object Art Continues to Elicit Disturbing Feelings

Found-object art, a form of sculptural work that utilizes materials found in everyday life, can often evoke unsettling and challenging feelings among viewers. This emotional response can be attributed to a complex interplay of juxtaposition and context, cultural associations, emotional resonance, and aesthetic challenges.

Juxtaposition and Context

Artists frequently employ everyday objects in unexpected ways, creating juxtapositions that can be jarring and thought-provoking. For instance, placing a child's toy alongside industrial materials can create a striking contrast that evokes feelings of nostalgia mixed with unease. Such unexpected pairings challenge our perceptions and cultural norms, prompting viewers to reconsider what they see and think.

Cultural Associations

Objects often carry deep cultural meanings and associations, which can shift in meaning depending on the context. A benign object, like a doll, might take on a darker connotation when used in a manner that suggests violence or abandonment. These shifts in meaning can be unsettling and make viewers reflect on their own cultural backgrounds and beliefs.

Abandonment and Displacement

Another element that can provoke discomfort is the implication of neglect or abandonment. Found objects, especially discarded items, often suggest a backstory of neglect, loss, or sadness. This narrative can evoke strong emotions like loneliness and despair, prompting viewers to ponder the stories behind these objects and the lives that have touched them.

Surrealism and the Uncanny

Many found-object pieces explore surrealism, drawing on the uncanny and dreams. This can be particularly unsettling as it challenges the viewer's perception of reality and normalcy. The enigmatic and bizarre quality of these works can create a sense of unease and provoke deep reflection.

Emotional Resonance

Artists frequently use found objects to express personal or societal trauma. The emotional weight behind these objects can resonate deeply with viewers, stirring feelings of discomfort or disturbance. These pieces often encapsulate experiences that are universal and personal, prompting a sense of shared understanding and vulnerability.

Challenge to Aesthetic Norms

Found-object art often subverts traditional notions of beauty and art. Its unconventional approach challenges viewers' preconceived ideas about what constitutes art. This challenge to aesthetic norms can be unsettling as it forces viewers to examine their own biases and assumptions about art and beauty.

In summary, the disturbing nature of found-object art often arises from the complex interplay of context, cultural meanings, emotional resonance, and aesthetic challenges. These elements can provoke deep reflection and emotional response, making the experience of viewing such art both powerful and unsettling. It is important to note, however, that not all found-object art is created equally. Some pieces may be more disturbing than others, depending on the artist's intent and the viewer's own sensitivities.

No piece of art is inherently boring; it is often the presentation and interpretation that can make or break its display. Even mundane objects can be transformed into powerful art when thoughtfully presented. The story behind the pieces, be it the artist's or an individual story, can add layers of meaning that make the art resonate with viewers in profound ways. One artist who masterfully uses found objects to tell the story of a little boy's life in Argentina is Juanito Laguna by Antonio Berni. This powerful and thought-provoking piece highlights the emotional and cultural significance of found objects in art.