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How to Create Art Using Things Around the House: A Guide to Found Object Art
Ever looked at a pile of discarded items and thought, “There’s something more here?” You’re not alone! Found object art, also known as assemblage, is a captivating art form that transforms ordinary, often discarded, objects into extraordinary works of art. Forget expensive canvases and specialized tools; with a bit of imagination and readily available materials from your home, you can unlock your inner artist and create stunning pieces. This guide will walk you through the process of creating found object art, from gathering materials to assembling your masterpiece.
What is Found Object Art?
Found object art is exactly what it sounds like: art created from objects that are found rather than purchased specifically for artistic purposes. These objects can be natural (like twigs, stones, or leaves) or man-made (such as bottle caps, buttons, or old toys). The beauty of found object art lies in its accessibility and the potential for creative reinvention. It challenges the traditional definition of art materials and encourages us to see the artistic potential in the everyday.
The History of Found Object Art
The roots of found object art can be traced back to the early 20th century, with artists like Marcel Duchamp pioneering the use of “readymades.” Duchamp’s Fountain, a urinal presented as sculpture, famously challenged conventional notions of art. Later, Surrealists and Dadaists embraced collage and assemblage, incorporating everyday objects into their work. Artists such as Kurt Schwitters created entire environments from collected refuse, demonstrating the transformative power of found object art. Today, found object art continues to evolve, reflecting contemporary concerns about consumerism, waste, and environmental sustainability.
Why Create Found Object Art?
There are many compelling reasons to explore found object art:
- It’s Eco-Friendly: Repurposing discarded materials reduces waste and gives new life to items that would otherwise end up in a landfill.
- It’s Budget-Friendly: You don’t need to invest in expensive art supplies. Your home and neighborhood become your art supply store.
- It’s Creative and Liberating: Working with unexpected materials encourages experimentation and breaks down creative barriers.
- It’s Unique and Personal: Each found object art piece is inherently unique, reflecting the artist’s individual vision and the specific materials they’ve chosen.
- It’s a Great Way to Express Yourself: Found object art can be a powerful medium for expressing your thoughts, feelings, and ideas.
Gathering Your Materials: The Art of the Scavenge
The first step in creating found object art is gathering your materials. This is where the fun begins! Start by exploring your home and its surroundings with a new perspective. Look beyond the obvious and consider the potential of everyday objects.
Where to Find Your Treasures
- Your Home: Attics, basements, closets, and drawers are treasure troves of forgotten items. Look for old toys, buttons, fabric scraps, broken tools, and discarded packaging.
- Your Yard: Nature provides a wealth of materials, including twigs, leaves, stones, shells, and dried flowers.
- Recycling Bins (with permission): Check with your neighbors or local recycling center before taking anything, but recycling bins can be a source of interesting materials like cans, bottles, and cardboard.
- Thrift Stores and Flea Markets: These places are goldmines for unique and unusual objects at affordable prices.
- The Beach: Seashells, driftwood, and sea glass can add a coastal touch to your artwork.
- Construction Sites (with permission): Scraps of wood, metal, and other materials can be found at construction sites, but always ask permission before taking anything.
What to Look For
When gathering materials, consider the following:
- Texture: Different textures can add depth and visual interest to your artwork. Think about smooth stones, rough wood, and corrugated cardboard.
- Color: Collect objects in a variety of colors to create a vibrant and eye-catching piece.
- Shape: Interesting shapes can add a sculptural element to your artwork. Look for objects with unique curves, angles, and patterns.
- Size: Varying the size of your objects can create a sense of scale and perspective.
- Material: Consider the different materials you’re working with and how they interact with each other. Metal, wood, plastic, and glass can all create different effects.
- Story: Does the object have a history? A past life? How can this past life imbue the artwork with a deeper meaning? For example, an old rusted key might represent unlocking a memory.
Cleaning and Preparing Your Materials
Before you start assembling your artwork, it’s important to clean and prepare your materials. Remove any dirt, dust, or debris. If you’re using natural materials, make sure they’re completely dry to prevent mold or mildew. You may also want to sand down rough edges or paint certain objects to achieve the desired effect.
Assembling Your Found Object Art Masterpiece
Now that you’ve gathered and prepared your materials, it’s time to start assembling your artwork. This is where your creativity and imagination come into play. There are no rules or limitations; the possibilities are endless!
Planning Your Design
Before you start gluing or attaching anything, it’s helpful to sketch out a rough design. This will give you a better idea of how you want your finished artwork to look. Consider the composition, balance, and overall aesthetic of your piece. You can also experiment with different arrangements of your objects to see what works best.
Choosing Your Base
You’ll need a base to build your found object art piece on. This could be a piece of wood, a canvas, a cardboard box, or even an old picture frame. Choose a base that is sturdy and can support the weight of your materials.
Adhesives and Attachment Methods
There are several different adhesives and attachment methods you can use to secure your objects to the base:
- Glue: Hot glue, wood glue, epoxy, and super glue are all good options, depending on the materials you’re working with. Hot glue is great for quick and easy attachment, while epoxy is stronger and more durable.
- Screws and Nails: If you’re working with wood or metal, screws and nails can provide a secure and permanent attachment.
- Wire: Wire can be used to wrap, tie, or suspend objects. It’s a great way to add texture and dimension to your artwork.
- String and Twine: Similar to wire, string and twine can add a rustic touch and are good for lighter objects.
- Drilling: If you have a drill, you can create holes to thread wire or string through, or to insert screws.
Techniques and Approaches
Here are some techniques you can use to create your found object art:
- Assemblage: This involves arranging and attaching objects to a base to create a three-dimensional sculpture.
- Collage: This involves gluing objects to a flat surface to create a two-dimensional artwork.
- Layering: Layering objects on top of each other can create depth and visual interest.
- Repetition: Repeating the same object or pattern can create a sense of rhythm and unity.
- Contrast: Juxtaposing contrasting objects or colors can create a dynamic and eye-catching effect.
- Narrative: Think about the story you want to tell. Can the objects you’ve chosen create a specific mood, or even act out a scene? For example, arranging toy soldiers and broken watch parts might represent the futility of war.
Adding Finishing Touches
Once you’ve assembled your artwork, you can add finishing touches to enhance its visual appeal. Consider painting, varnishing, or adding embellishments like beads, glitter, or sequins. These details can help to tie the piece together and create a cohesive look. Consider the overall message of the art. Does the chosen color palette enhance that meaning? For example, using only muted and grey tones might suggest a somber mood.
Inspiration and Ideas for Your Found Object Art
Need some inspiration? Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- A Portrait: Create a portrait using buttons, beads, and other small objects.
- A Landscape: Create a landscape using twigs, leaves, stones, and other natural materials.
- An Abstract Sculpture: Experiment with different shapes, textures, and colors to create an abstract sculpture.
- A Functional Object: Transform discarded objects into a functional object, such as a lamp, a planter, or a piece of furniture.
- A Themed Piece: Choose a theme, such as nature, technology, or history, and create an artwork that reflects that theme.
Found Object Art: Safety Considerations
While found object art is a fun and creative activity, it’s important to prioritize safety:
- Wear Protective Gear: When cutting, sanding, or drilling, wear safety glasses and gloves to protect your eyes and hands.
- Ventilate Your Workspace: When using glue, paint, or varnish, work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling harmful fumes.
- Supervise Children: If children are participating, supervise them closely and ensure they’re using age-appropriate tools and materials.
- Be Mindful of Sharp Objects: Handle sharp objects, such as broken glass or metal, with care to avoid cuts or injuries.
- Clean Up Thoroughly: After you’re finished working, clean up your workspace and dispose of any waste materials properly.
Conclusion: Unleash Your Inner Artist with Found Object Art
Found object art is a rewarding and accessible art form that allows you to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. By embracing the beauty of discarded objects and unleashing your creativity, you can create unique and meaningful artworks that reflect your individual vision. So, go ahead, start scavenging, and discover the joy of found object art!
Ready to start your found object art journey? Share your creations with us in the comments below! We’d love to see what you come up with.
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