Found Objects

Found Objects Exploration

Found objects are an exciting way to incorporate everyday materials into art, creating a bridge between the mundane and the extraordinary. This technique lets you breathe new life into objects, allowing them to tell stories in unexpected ways.

Materials

• Found objects can be anything, for me was (leaves, sticks, cardboard rolls, etc.)

• Glue (stick, liquid, or tacky glue)

• Scissors

• Brushes and paints

• Palette knife

• Mod Podge or other sealant

How to Start: Found Object Art

Steps:

• Gather Materials – Start by collecting found objects that inspire you, such as leaves, branches, or recycled materials like cardboard rolls.

• Clean and Prep – Ensure your materials are clean and ready for use. For leaves and natural items, drying them beforehand helps.

• Sketch a Concept – Lightly plan your composition. Will you build a sculpture or create a 2D textured artwork?

• Arrange the Objects – Experiment with placement, balancing colors and textures before adhering.

• Attach and Secure – Use appropriate adhesives for your materials (e.g., tacky glue for leaves and Mod Podge as a topcoat).

• Enhance with Paint – Add layers of paint to unify the piece or highlight details.

Additional Tips

• Layering: Use overlapping textures for added depth and visual interest.

• Adhesion: For heavier objects, a hot glue gun works wonders, while tacky glue is ideal for lightweight materials.

• Color Contrast: Play with complementary colors to make certain elements stand out.

• Composition: Arrange found objects to guide the viewer’s eye naturally.

Experimentation Ideas

• Create a nature-inspired piece using leaves and branches.

• Explore themes like recycling by incorporating bottle caps, cardboard, and other disposables.

• Combine found objects with traditional art materials like paint or charcoal for a mixed-media approach.

For the Classroom

Found objects are a versatile medium suitable for all ages. Here's how you can incorporate them into lessons:

• Younger students: Focus on assembling objects with simple adhesives and materials.

• Older students: Introduce complex compositions using layering and painting techniques.

• Safety tips: Supervise the use of sharp tools and strong adhesives, and encourage clean-up.

Accommodation Possibilities

• Provide pre-cleaned objects for participants with limited mobility.

• Use peel-and-stick materials for easier assembly.

Inspiration and Resources

Artists to Explore:

• Louise Nevelson (known for her assemblages using found materials)

• El Anatsui (uses recycled and found objects to create stunning large-scale sculptures)

• Marcel Duchamp (pioneering the use of found objects in art through his "readymades") 

Books and Techniques:

• Found Object Art by Dorothy Spencer

• Assemblage Art: Techniques & Inspiration by Miriam Schaer

Personal Reflections

Working with found objects is a deeply satisfying way to turn discarded or overlooked materials into something meaningful. The textures, colors, and inherent history of each object add depth to the final artwork. It’s a wonderful practice for connecting with nature, exploring sustainability, and experimenting with unconventional mediums.

Reference

Spencer, Dorothy. Found Object Art. Watson-Guptill Publications, 2001.