The Art of Sculptures with Found Objects: Transforming the Ordinary into the Extraordinary 

Sculpture with found objects, is an artistic expression that challenges us to see the world from a new perspective. By giving life to discarded or seemingly insignificant materials, artists create works that reflect creativity, sustainability, and social critique. More than a technique, this approach invites us to appreciate the hidden beauty in everyday elements. 

Historically, the practice of using found objects in art is not new. In many ancient cultures, items like bones, stones, and shells were transformed into amulets or ceremonial sculptures. However, it was in the early 20th century that this technique became a hallmark of modern art, especially with the Dadaist movement. Marcel Duchamp, for example, challenged artistic conventions by presenting everyday objects, such as a urinal, as art (readymades). His boldness opened the door for artists to explore new possibilities, questioning the boundaries between the ordinary and the extraordinary. 

The Materials: Narratives That Tell Stories 

The choice of materials is one of the most fascinating aspects of this practice. From industrial tools to nature’s cast-offs, every object carries a story. When incorporated into a sculpture, they create narratives that prompt the viewer to reflect on their origin and meaning. For instance, a rusty piece of metal can symbolize abandonment, while a glass bottle shaped by the tides can evoke the passage of time and the power of nature. 

In addition to symbolism, materials allow artists to explore textures, shapes, and colors. The juxtaposition of contrasting elements—like rough wood and polished glass—creates compositions that spark curiosity and emotion. More than mere repurposed objects, these materials come alive in an artistic context, taking on meanings that transcend their original purpose. 

Sustainability and Environmental Impact 

One of the great merits of sculpture with found objects is its positive environmental impact. By repurposing materials that would otherwise be discarded, artists not only reduce waste but also encourage reflection on consumerism and sustainability. In a world where waste is an urgent issue, this form of art inspires us to rethink our disposal habits and see value in what is often considered useless. 

This approach also democratizes art. Unlike techniques that require expensive or sophisticated materials, the use of found objects makes creation accessible to everyone. Anyone, regardless of artistic training, can explore this practice, unleashing their creativity and giving new meanings to the world around them. 

Joseph Cornell and the Charm of Assemblages 

Among the artists who left their mark on this genre, Joseph Cornell is an iconic figure. His “object boxes” (assemblages) are extraordinary examples of how simple elements can be transformed into poetic and deeply evocative works. 

Born in 1903 in New York, Cornell used wooden boxes to organize found objects such as old toys, shells, fragments of mirrors, and photographs. His works, inspired by surrealism, created visual narratives that evoked memories, dreams, and desires. Each box was a small universe where time seemed suspended, inviting the viewer to lose themselves in a world of nostalgia and wonder. 

Cornell also had a unique talent for connecting seemingly unrelated objects, creating symbolic associations that sparked imagination. His work transcended surrealism, influencing movements like conceptual art and inspiring generations of artists to explore the possibilities of found object art. 

The Creation Process: The Artist’s Eye 

Creating a sculpture with found objects requires more than technical skill; it demands a keen eye and fertile imagination. The process begins with careful observation of available materials. An object that seems trivial to many might become the centerpiece of a significant work for the artist. 

Additionally, composition is crucial. How objects are arranged—their positions, angles, and interactions—determines the visual and emotional impact of the piece. Texture, color, and scale are elements the artist uses to create harmony or contrast, reinforcing the message they wish to convey. 

Another important aspect is storytelling. Many sculptures with found objects tell stories, whether personal, social, or environmental. This connection with the viewer is what makes the work dynamic and impactful, allowing for multiple interpretations depending on the cultural and emotional background of the observer. 

The Interaction Between Art and Viewer 

A special characteristic of found object art is its ability to actively engage the audience. When observing a sculpture made from found objects, the viewer is invited to decipher the meanings behind each element. This interaction transforms the artistic experience into something unique, where each person projects their own memories and feelings onto the work. 

For example, an old toy incorporated into a sculpture might evoke childhood memories for some, while for others, it might symbolize loss or nostalgia. This subjectivity is what makes art with found objects so rich and multifaceted. 

A New Perspective on the Everyday 

Exploring the universe of sculpture with found objects is an exercise in creativity and sensitivity. It is a powerful reminder that there is beauty all around us, even in the most ordinary or discarded materials. 

This art form is not just a technique but a philosophy. It teaches us to value what we have, question our perceptions, and see potential in what once seemed irrelevant. By transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary, found object art inspires us to look at the world with greater attention and admiration.