Pronunciation: [ˈɑːt fˈa͡ʊnd] (IPA) 
The spelling of the phrase "art found" follows standard English spelling rules. "Art" is pronounced /ɑrt/ and "found" is pronounced /faʊnd/. In this context, "art" refers to anything created by human skill and imagination, while "found" implies something that has been discovered, often by chance. Together, "art found" can refer to a piece of art that has been uncovered or discovered in some way, adding to its value and intrigue.
Art found refers to a type of artistic expression that involves utilizing existing objects or materials found in everyday life and transforming them into artistic creations. It encompasses the act of discovering or stumbling upon pieces of art within the environment or within discarded or abandoned items. Art found emphasizes the idea that artistic value and beauty can be extracted from seemingly ordinary or disregarded objects.
Art found encompasses a wide range of approaches and techniques, including assemblage, collage, and ready-made art. It often involves repurposing or rearranging objects, such as combining different materials, constructing collages, or creating sculptures from discarded items. The focus of art found is not necessarily creating something new from scratch, but rather recognizing the artistic potential in things that already exist.
This art form originated in the early 20th century with artists like Marcel Duchamp, who challenged traditional notions of art by presenting ordinary objects as art, such as his famous "Fountain" piece. Art found blurs the boundaries between art and everyday life, inviting viewers to consider the aesthetics and meanings of objects they encounter in their daily routines.
Art found is not limited by medium or material, as it can incorporate any object or material found in the environment. It can include natural elements such as rocks, twigs, shells, or man-made objects like plastic bottles, old machinery, or discarded furniture. This form of art encourages a new perspective on the mundane, inviting viewers to reconsider the value and beauty of objects that might otherwise go unnoticed.
The term "art found" seems to be a combination of two separate terms: "art" and "found".
"Art" comes from the Latin word "ars" which means skill or craft. It has been used in various languages since the Middle Ages to refer to human creative expression, aesthetics, and imaginative skills.
"Found" is an English word that comes from the past participle of the verb "find". It has been used since at least the 13th century to indicate the act of discovering or coming across something.
When combined, "art found" could be interpreted as the idea of uncovering or discovering art, or perhaps an artistic practice that involves utilizing found objects or materials.
