In today’s digital world, the idea of sending physical items through the mail may seem outdated. However, there is one form of communication that has been standing the test of time and continues to thrive – sending art through the mail.
Known as “Kunst verschicken” in German, sending art through the mail has a long history that dates back to the early 20th century. It was during this time that artists like Marcel Duchamp and Salvador Dali began to explore the idea of using the postal system as a means of creating and sharing artwork.
One of the most famous examples of Kunst verschicken is Marcel Duchamp’s “Belle Haleine, Eau de Voilette,” a readymade sculpture that he sent to his friend and fellow artist, Man Ray, in 1921. The piece consisted of a perfume bottle that Duchamp had altered by adding a label with the title of the artwork. This piece not only challenged traditional notions of art and the art market but also demonstrated the potential of using the postal system as a medium for artistic expression.
Since then, artists around the world have embraced the concept of Kunst verschicken, using the postal system to create and send a wide variety of artwork. From drawings and paintings to sculptures and installations, there are no limits to what can be sent through the mail. This form of art has also been embraced by art movements such as Fluxus and Mail Art, which have used the postal system as a means of connecting artists from different parts of the world and creating collaborative projects.
One of the reasons why Kunst verschicken continues to be popular among artists is its accessibility and democratic nature. Unlike traditional art galleries and museums, which can be exclusive and selective in the artists they represent, sending art through the mail allows artists to reach a wider audience and share their work with people from all walks of life. This form of art is also affordable and environmentally friendly, as it eliminates the need for expensive packaging and shipping materials.
In addition to being a medium for artistic expression, Kunst verschicken also serves as a form of social and political commentary. Through their artwork, artists can address pressing issues such as climate change, social inequality, and the refugee crisis, bringing attention to these important topics in a creative and engaging way. By sending their art through the mail, artists can reach individuals who may not have access to traditional art institutions and spark conversations on a global scale.
Furthermore, sending art through the mail can be a form of performance art, as artists engage with the postal system and challenge its conventions and limitations. From creating interactive mail pieces that require the recipient to actively participate in the artwork to sending unconventional items such as food and clothing, artists can push the boundaries of what is considered art and challenge the viewer’s expectations.
One of the key aspects of Kunst verschicken is the element of surprise and unpredictability. When you receive a piece of art in the mail, you never know what to expect. It could be a small drawing tucked inside an envelope or a larger installation that unfolds as you unpack the box. This element of surprise adds an element of excitement and wonder to the experience of receiving art through the mail, creating a sense of connection between the artist and the recipient.
In conclusion, Kunst verschicken is a unique and innovative form of artistic expression that continues to captivate artists and audiences around the world. By using the postal system as a medium for creating and sharing art, artists can transcend the boundaries of traditional art institutions and reach a wider audience. This form of art not only challenges conventional notions of art and the art market but also serves as a platform for social and political commentary. Sending art through the mail is a testament to the enduring power of creativity and human connection in a digital age.