Assemblage Guide

A history of assemblage

Assemblage art is a unique and expressive form of art that involves the combination of found objects or materials to create three-dimensional works. It emerged as an art movement in the early 20th century and continues to inspire artists around the world today.

The origins of assemblage art can be traced back to the work of the Dadaists in the early 20th century. This group of artists rejected traditional art forms and sought to create works that were anti-establishment and challenged the status quo. Assemblage art offered an opportunity to create art out of everyday objects and materials, and to challenge traditional notions of what art could be.

One of the earliest artists to work with assemblage was Pablo Picasso. He began incorporating found objects such as chairs, rope, and metal scraps into his art in the 1910s and 1920s. Other artists, including Marcel Duchamp and Man Ray, also experimented with found objects during this time, creating works that blurred the lines between art and everyday objects.

In the 1950s and 1960s, assemblage art gained popularity in the United States, particularly among artists associated with the Beat Generation and the Fluxus movement. Artists such as Robert Rauschenberg and Jasper Johns created works that combined elements of painting and sculpture, incorporating everyday objects such as newspapers, clothing, and furniture into their art.

Assemblage art continued to evolve throughout the 20th century, with artists from around the world exploring new ways to incorporate found objects and materials into their work. In the UK, artists such as Eduardo Paolozzi and Richard Hamilton were at the forefront of the assemblage movement. They created sculptures and installations that incorporated industrial materials, such as machine parts and electronics, into their work.

In recent years, assemblage art has continued to evolve and inspire new generations of artists. Today, artists around the world use found objects and materials to create works that explore themes such as consumerism, globalisation, and the environment. Assemblage art remains a powerful form of expression, allowing artists to repurpose materials and create new meaning through the combination of unrelated objects.

In conclusion, assemblage art is a fascinating and dynamic art form that has its roots in the early 20th century. From its origins in Dadaism and the work of artists such as Picasso, assemblage art has evolved and grown to become a major form of artistic expression in the 21st century. By combining found objects and materials, artists are able to create works that challenge traditional notions of art and explore complex themes and ideas. Assemblage art continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world, and it will no doubt continue to evolve and grow in the years to come.

Tools of the assemblage trade

Assemblage art involves the combination of found objects or materials to create three-dimensional works of art. The following are some of the main tools and materials used in assemblage art:

Found objects: Assemblage artists use a wide variety of found objects in their work, ranging from everyday items such as clothing, toys, and furniture to more unusual items such as industrial parts, electronics, and natural materials. Found objects are often used to create a sense of contrast and tension in the artwork, as well as to give the work a sense of history and meaning.

Glue and adhesive: Glue and adhesive are essential tools for assemblage artists, as they are used to attach the found objects together and create a cohesive work of art. There are many different types of glue and adhesive available, including hot glue, epoxy, and super glue, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Cutting tools: Assemblage artists often need to cut, shape, and manipulate the found objects to fit their vision for the artwork. Cutting tools such as scissors, utility knives, and saws are commonly used in assemblage art, allowing artists to transform the found objects into new and unexpected forms.

Paint and other surface treatments: Many assemblage artists use paint or other surface treatments to alter the appearance of the found objects and create a sense of unity within the artwork. Paint can be used to create a consistent colour palette or to add texture and depth to the work. Other surface treatments such as gilding, patination, and rusting can also be used to alter the appearance of the found objects.

Hardware: Assemblage artists often use hardware such as screws, bolts, and wire to attach the found objects together and create a sturdy and cohesive work of art. Hardware can also be used to add an industrial or mechanical feel to the artwork, as well as to give the work a sense of weight and substance.

In summary, assemblage art is a unique and expressive form of art that involves the combination of found objects or materials. Assemblage artists use a variety of tools and materials to transform these found objects into new and unexpected forms, creating works of art that challenge traditional notions of art and explore complex themes and ideas. By repurposing materials and giving them new meaning, assemblage artists are able to create works that are both beautiful and thought-provoking.