Seeing modern art through unusual materials

Seeing modern art through unusual materials

Modern art simply is pushing the envelope of creativity and expression by continuously challenging traditional limitations. Perhaps the most intriguing feature of the development in the direction of this type of artistic movement is the use of unorthodox materials, which allows artists to step out of the bounds attached to traditional mediums like paint and canvas. This provides an improvement not only in aesthetic beauty but also raises important questions about the very nature of this thing called art.

Changing Stance Towards Non-Conventional Material
Art has always functioned in accordance with already set traditions. For instance, oil paints, marble, wood, and the like formed the core of art throughout history. Yet, when the exploratory stroke of innovative minds entered the scene, artists found out that metal, glass, fabric, and even found objects could express more profoundly felt meanings. A new look and dimension gave the art horizon, leading to an explosion of creativity into the very complexities of contemporary society.

Notable Examples
One of the leading figures probably is American artist Robert Rauschenberg: he uses common objects for "Combines," a form of mixed-media art which integrates painting and sculpture with elements such as clothes, newspapers, and other waste products. The art does encourage viewers to think anew about their perceptions of art and its relationship to the world.

Similarly, Elsa Schiaparelli, a French fashion designer and also a contemporary of Salvador Dalí, used unconventional materials for fashion designs and also removed the boundaries of acceptability between the two fields of fashion and art. Her use of materials, such as zippers and plastics, was contrary to what the conventional design was dictating and made evident how this art could be anything and for any purpose.

Engaging the Spectator
The use of nonconventional materials also allows audiences to be involved. Audiences are more likely to think about their life experiences and meanings that are attached to a particular material when viewing art as created from everyday, mundane objects. The history, memory, and fact that is the passing nature of time is the stimulus and inspiration behind Anselm Kiefer's work of using straw and ash as part of the work. It manages to challenge people to think about their being and to talk about the piece, to understand a personal connection.

Environmental Awareness
The recent years have experienced increased environmental awareness in the art world. Artists more than ever resort to making use of recyclable and friendly products in making their art pieces. Most importantly, it contributes to waste reduction and gives a prominent message regarding environmental stewardship. Among them is Olafur Eliasson, who uses natural elements such as light and water to create large installative works challenging us in our relations with the environment.

Conclusion
Exploring modern art through unorthodox material is an exciting journey that reveals the unbounded possibilities of creative expression. With diverse materials, an artist can say so much more, put across a completely new message, or involve people in creating something that benefits them in a fresh and unique manner, reflecting just what occurs within contemporary society. How interesting it will be to see what these unconventional approaches do in shaping the future of artistic expression as the art world continues in its constant evolution. In whichever way this is actually done through found objects, recycled materials, or by new uses of technology, modern art remains a testament to the ever-expanding boundaries of human creativity.

Seeing modern art through unusual materials