Plastic
Definition
This term refers to artworks created using plastic, a synthetic material that became widely used in the 20th century due to its versatility, durability, and ease of manipulation. Plastic has been employed in various forms, from cast sculptures to mixed-media installations, often exploring themes of consumerism, mass production, and the artificial.
History
Plastic became a significant material in art during the mid-20th century, particularly with the rise of Pop Art and Minimalism, where artists embraced industrial materials and mass-produced objects. The use of plastic in art often reflects broader cultural shifts towards consumerism, technology, and the synthetic, challenging traditional notions of craftsmanship and materiality.
Notable Examples
Claes Oldenburg
Giant Soft Fan, 1966
Jeff Koons
Balloon Dog, 1994
Claes Oldenburg
Soft Toilet, 1966
Eva Hesse
Repetition Nineteen III, 1968
Key Artists & Movements
Key figures include Claes Oldenburg, whose large-scale sculptures of everyday objects often use plastic and other synthetic materials to comment on consumer culture, and Jeff Koons, known for his highly polished, plastic-like sculptures that explore themes of kitsch, commodity, and the boundaries between high and low art.
Techniques & Materials
Techniques involve molding, casting, extruding, and assembling plastic into various forms. Artists may use both thermoplastic and thermosetting plastics, employing methods like vacuum forming, injection molding, and 3D printing to create works that range from sleek, industrial designs to playful, whimsical sculptures. The use of plastic allows for a wide range of textures, colors, and forms, making it a versatile material for contemporary art.
2940 Portland Dr.
Oakville, Ontario, Canada L6H5W8
Khalifa Blvd, Dubai, UAE
[email protected]
