"From Discard to Art: The Heartfelt Journey of Repurposing Found Objects & Junk into Symbols"
(©Michel Keck - my above found object cross art assemblage is SOLD)
As an artist, my creative journey has taken a distinctive turn—one that breathes life into discarded items, turning forgotten fragments into symbols that resonate with deeper meaning. The decision to work with junk, crafting symbols like crosses and hearts, is more than an artistic preference; it's a conscious choice reflecting my values, passions, and a desire to infuse meaning into overlooked materials.
Rediscovering Beauty in the Unseen
In a world that often rushes toward the next shiny thing, I find solace and inspiration in the discarded. The worn, the rusted, and the seemingly irrelevant materials become my canvas, each piece holding untold stories and histories. There's a unique beauty in the overlooked, and my art aims to shed light on the extraordinary narratives hidden within the ordinary.
Sustainability as a Creative Imperative
Choosing to repurpose junk isn't just an aesthetic decision; it's a commitment to sustainable art. The environmental impact of production and consumption weighs heavily on my artistic conscience. By transforming discarded items into symbols, I contribute, in my small way, to reducing the ecological footprint associated with the art-making process. It's a reminder that creativity can thrive without compromising our planet's health.
(©Michel Keck - my above found object cross assemblage is SOLD)
Every Piece Tells a Story
One of the most captivating aspects of working with discarded materials is the individual stories each piece brings to the table. The cross, a powerful symbol of spirituality, crafted from fragments that have weathered their own trials, becomes a metaphor for resilience. Hearts, fashioned from forgotten items, symbolize the potential for love and beauty in unexpected places. Each creation is not just a piece of art; it's a storyteller, weaving tales of transformation and redemption.
Unleashing Creativity in Imperfection
There's a liberating quality in embracing imperfection. In the world of discarded items, no two pieces are alike. Each fragment, with its unique marks and scars, contributes to the authenticity of the final creation. It's a celebration of the imperfect, a rejection of mass-produced uniformity, and a reminder that true beauty often lies in the idiosyncrasies of each individual piece.
(©Michel Keck - my above found object cross art assemblage is SOLD)
Bridging Time and Embracing Nostalgia
Working with vintage materials offers a bridge between the past and the present. Each item carries a sense of nostalgia, connecting us to bygone eras. Incorporating these elements into my art creates a dialogue between different times, inviting viewers to reflect on the passage of time and the enduring value found in the discarded remnants of history.
In essence, my choice to turn discarded items into symbols is a heartfelt exploration of creativity, sustainability, and the inherent beauty found in the overlooked. It's a journey of rediscovery, a commitment to telling stories, and a celebration of the extraordinary potential that resides in the ordinary. As I continue to craft symbols from the discarded, my hope is to inspire others to see the beauty in the forgotten and embrace the transformative power of creativity.
(my above found object heart art assemblage is SOLD)
click here to view or purchase any of my found object art collage assemblages or beer can rat sculptures
©Michel Keck
