How to See Ordinary Objects as Art
Art is often thought of as paintings, sculptures, and carefully crafted installations, but there's an entire world of potential art in our everyday surroundings. When we change the way we look at common objects, we can uncover their aesthetic, emotional, and cultural value. In doing so, we invite creativity and appreciation into our daily lives.
Here are some of the ways to look at ordinary objects as art, for seeing beauty and inspiration in the items we interact with every day.
1. Change Your Perspective
Seeing everyday objects as art requires a shift in perspective. Often, we look at objects only for their utility: a chair is for sitting, a mug for drinking. But by focusing on an object’s form, color, and design, we can appreciate it in a new light. Observe an object from various angles, or imagine it separated from its function. A teapot’s curves, for example, might remind you of a sculpture. Likewise, the woven pattern on a basket may resemble intricate artistry.
2. Consider Historical and Cultural Context
Many everyday objects have stories behind them—design histories that add another layer of appreciation. Think of a vintage rotary phone or an antique vase: both are tied to a specific era and culture. This narrative elevates the object from a simple item to a piece of living history, reminding us of the past and connecting us to broader human experiences.
3. Focus on Texture and Material
The materials used in everyday items can be incredibly diverse and interesting. Wood, metal, glass, clay, and fabric all bring their unique visual and tactile qualities. Looking closely at the texture of an object—its smoothness, roughness, warmth, or coldness—reveals a lot about its purpose and craftsmanship.
4. Think About Composition and Placement
An object’s placement and relationship with other items in its environment can transform it from something ordinary into an element of a larger composition. A row of bottles lined up in a kitchen window can act as a pop of color, while a group of different-sized bowls on a table creates interesting depth and visual rhythm. Try rearranging items you already have in your space, thinking of them as parts of an art installation.
5. Embrace Light and Shadow
Objects can be transformed by light, with shadows adding depth and drama. Sunlight streaming through a window can cast intricate shadows from an open-weave basket, or make a glass bottle glow with color. Light can transform an ordinary object, making it feel alive and ever-changing.
6. Look for Patterns and Repetition
Repetition and pattern are fundamental elements of art that often go unnoticed in our daily lives. Look around and notice patterns in your surroundings—whether it's the repetitive design of a tiled floor, the rhythm of book spines on a shelf, or the symmetry of a row of chairs. Recognizing patterns can add a sense of harmony and balance to your environment.
7. See Beauty in Functionality
Sometimes, the most beautiful objects are those that seamlessly blend form with function. A well-designed chair or an intricately crafted teapot can bring joy because of the thought and care that went into its creation. Seeing beauty in functionality is about appreciating how an object works as well as how it looks.
Art is in everyday, ordinary objects. By paying closer attention to an item’s design, history, texture, and placement, we gain a fresh appreciation for the objects we use every day. In doing so, we cultivate a mindset of gratitude and creativity, making even the most mundane moments feel more vibrant and intentional. Going a step further, you can change how the object is perceived by placing it on a shelf, wall or frame to show the significance of that object as art.
So the next time you reach for a mug or glance at a lamp, take a moment to look a little closer—you may just find that your world is filled with art in the most unexpected places.