Art World: Whitehot Magazine with Noah Becker Marcel Duchamp interview on Art and Dada (1956)
Apr 10, 2021
In a captivating 1956 interview, Marcel Duchamp, a Dada master and conceptual art pioneer, discusses the intriguing story behind his iconic artwork, 'the big glass,' and its cracks that reflect beauty in imperfection. He delves into the evolution of taste in art, emphasizing the role of ready-mades and societal acceptance. Duchamp reflects on the shift from traditional artistic forms to conceptual art, showcasing how personal and unfinished works resonate deeply with life experiences. His insights challenge perceptions of creativity and the essence of artistic identity.
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Accidental Beauty In Broken Glass
- Marcel Duchamp recounts how his big glass panes were transported and cracked during a bumpy 60-mile truck trip in Connecticut in 1926.
- He values the resulting symmetrical cracks as an unintended, ready-made intention he respects.
Rejecting Repetition To Avoid 'Taste'
- Duchamp moved from Impressionism to Cubism then deliberately avoided repeating himself after the Nude Descending a Staircase.
- He deliberately changed styles to prevent forming a repeating 'taste' or habit.
Work To Preserve Artistic Independence
- Duchamp took a library job to free himself from relying on painting for income so he could work for himself.
- He advises avoiding dependence on art sales to preserve independence of expression.