The art movement that sought to challenge traditional notions of art and blur the boundaries between art and everyday objects is known as "Dada." Dada emerged during World War I in the early 20th century as a response to the horrors of war and a rejection of conventional artistic and cultural values.
Dada artists embraced absurdity, irrationality, and anti-establishment sentiments. They aimed to dismantle and critique traditional artistic norms, often through unconventional and provocative means. One key aspect of Dada was the incorporation of found objects, known as "readymades," into artworks. These readymades were ordinary objects, such as urinals or bicycle wheels, that were selected by the artist and presented as art, challenging the traditional notion of what could be considered an artwork.
Dadaists aimed to disrupt the complacency and rationality of society, rejecting the idea of art as something precious or exclusive. They sought to create a new artistic language that questioned authority, celebrated randomness, and emphasized the power of individual expression.
The Dada movement had a significant influence on subsequent art movements, such as Surrealism and Pop Art. Its legacy can be seen in the continued exploration of unconventional materials, the use of found objects, and the blurring of boundaries between art and everyday life in contemporary art practices.