The found object is an often maligned formulation for art pieces. And this is not all-together hard to understand. It is an art form somewhat akin to to Picasso-cubism and Pollock-abstract impressionism in its attraction of unskilled attempts at recreation. Like cubism and abstract impressionism it is often though easier than other techniques, but it is usually forgotten that Picasso could classically draw circles around other artists. It was because he was so good at classical drawing, that he was able to abstract forms and retain meaning and depth.
Courtesy of Bernard Pras
And so, amidst the many poor renditions of found art, there are some real gems that often get written off, out-of-hand. One such artist who does the art form justice is the French artist Bernard Pras. His works are composed using anamorphosis and assemblage, with the use of distorted projection to create an image seemingly true from only a certain angle.
This, his latest piece titled Sotigui Kouyaté, is created from objects found around the assembly site. The many items include paint, wood (worked and raw from the tree), rubber, clothes, knic-knacs, pottery… the list goes on. The work gains real depth of concept when one takes into account the piece’s use of both floor and back wall. Found art may seem thrown together, but only the great ones look like the artist’s got perfect aim. Currently, Pras is showing at MazelGalerie in Brussels, Belgium.
Courtesy of Bernard Pras
