rejectamenta

Information about Rejectamenta

The work showcased on this website has been produced whilst studying for a PhD in Design (at Kingston University, UK, 2001 - 2008) and an MA in Design (at De Montfort University, Leicester, UK, 1997 - 2000). Found objects have been used to challenge preconceptions and boundaries in an art and design context. All the research links directly with my teaching and project writing at De Montfort University, Leicester, UK.

Within a mass of waste the materials' identity and individuality is lost and all objects, whether conventionally of value or not, are treated as disposable objects. In this way all rubbish holds a negative value which may increase depending on the size or toxicity of the object, rather than its original status. By selection and manipulation the objects can regain a positive and aesthetic value. This differs to the original monetary one. They now have value in terms of their context - this in turn gives them value with regard to ethics, aesthetics and/or function.

Through processing, inconsequential objects can acquire an improved aesthetic status. They gain added content and attention is drawn to them in terms of colour, texture and shape. Their mass qualities of repetition and slight variation, or their total contrast with other materials, are revealed and explored. When removed from their original context ordinary and everyday objects can be viewed in a different way. Items that have been constantly overlooked can become unexpected and attention seeking. The history and associations of the objects and the experiences and expectations of the viewer contribute significantly to how the work is viewed. It can now be open to many different interpretations.

The diversity, accessibility and free nature of found objects make them ideal materials for use in a creative context. Salvaged materials enable creativity to be expressed without monetary constraints. They are initially viewed as worthless and insignificant encouraging a freedom of approach which expensive raw materials can inhibit. Of course there is always the potential for rubbish to remain looking like rubbish! Found objects, like any other artistic medium, are not a panacea for all creative ills and as with other materials, they have strengths and weaknesses.

Throughout the length of the PhD and MA study salvaged items have been a source of creative inspiration and excitement. How and where they were found, their inherent qualities and chance all play a part in creating work which is diverse in terms of materials, techniques, scale and the combination of hand-skills and technology. Each piece exists on its own and as part of a larger collection.

The PhD work builds upon the earlier visual experiments produced for the MA and further explores the role that found items can play in the creative process. Both bodies of work can be viewed on this website.

If you are a creator that uses found / recycled materials please email me to tell me about your work.