Marcel Duchamp, born in 1887, was one of the leading artists of the Dada movement. His influence changed his perspective on how he formed new work later in his career. Dadaism completely severed itself from tradition, and artist Duchamp valued his interpretation of what art was. Fascinated by the mind and pushing boundaries, Duchamp contributed and created various art movements throughout his lifetime. Starting with Impressionism, it led Duchamp to Cubism, which opened opportunities for Dadaism in the early 20th century. “Even at the moment when he was learning about Cubism, Duchamp was already transforming it into something entirely different…” (Arnason, H. Mansfield, E. 2012). Nevertheless, Duchamp valued movements by interpreting them from his perspective.
Throughout Duchamp’s career, he created Nude Descending a Staircase (1912), Fountain (1917), and L.H.O.O.Q. (1919), which remains just a few of his most famous works. Duchamp’s mind behind his work remains a question for all artists today: “What is art?”. Today, Christians can view his work as showing a deeper meaning that parallels the Christian life. Often, believers will wonder what their purpose is in God’s plan. Viewing the works of Duchamp can spark a mindset in both the art community and the Christian walk. “Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.” (Proverbs 19:21, ESV Bible). God created each individual, including Duchamp, with a purpose, and it is up to each person to rest in God’s plan.
For more articles on Marcel Duchamp please visit:
Philadelphia Museum of Art Marcel Duchamp and the Fountain Scandal: https://www.philamuseum.org/exhibitions/855.html & Museum of Modern Art Marcel Duchamp: https://www.moma.org/artists/1634#works
Hannah J. Pasquini © 2022
References:
Arnason, H., H. and Elizabeth C. Mansfield. History of Modern Art. Available from: Liberty University Online Bookshelf, (7th Edition). Pearson Education (US), 2012. https://libertyonline.vitalsource.com/reader/books/9780205953233/pageid/184
The English Standard (ESV) Bible Proverbs 19:21
