COMBINES

 

Combines originated from the art work of Robert Rauschenberg in the 1950’s and 60’s. He  also coined the term. The classic feature of this art is it incorporates elements of found objects, newspaper clippings, photographs, paintings and other unrelated elements. These are brought together to form a paradox of viewing and new meaning beyond their origin. These works of art are also called assemblages or mixed art. Nothing about Rauschenberg is usual. Despite his European sounding name, he was born in Port Arther, Texas. Living in the South he learned much for watching Afroamerican black artists who often used found art to inspire them. He got further inspiration by doing window displays to pay for college. These displays combined varied objects to attract attention. Rauschenberg studied under traditional artist Joseph Albers at small colleges. He managed to escape these traditional bounds to pursue perfecting combines. At first they were called everything by critics including ramshackle hybrids. Over time though they grew to be famous. Throughout his career he sought to explore boundaries  between art and the everyday world. He sought to have his combines generate new views and thoughts on what otherwise were unrelated elements. When you work in this medium you can feel reluctance at times. The elements and art you bring together are done by others. However, the art is combining them in new ways. Ways that stretch your view of life beyond the obvious and that’s not a bad thing in these times.