relational aesthetics

When thinking about social relations in an art context, I first think of the dada movement and in particular Duchamp. Duchamp's works, such as his readymades, incorporated quotidian objects which in turn broke down the hierarchal divide in society and broadened art appreciation to the masses.

In a similar way Pop Art focused heavily on mundane everyday objects, in this case again to include a broad social spectrum, and also to reflect the rapidly increasing phenomenon of consumerism. Andy Warhol's Campbells soup cans are reflective of how art imitates life and how society can easily relate to such an object.

In contemporary artists' work, like Rirkrit Tiravanija, a familiar objective to the Pop Art ideals is achieved. Now however instead of just being able to view a relatable image, one is immersed in the work and interacting.