Artist research - Joseph Cornell

Another artist whose work explores the theme of the uncanny is Joseph Cornell. As an artist, he is recognised for questioning and challenging viewer's initial response to his work and opening up new perceptions of his pieces. Through employing this, he explores the concept of 'the uncanny' by challenging perspectives and allowing the viewer to reconsider his work in a new, not previously or obviously considered way. Cornell's work is often concerned with themes of childhood, mystery and space. He also uses the technique of juxtaposing items which are unpredicted which also creates a sense of un-canniness to his projects. His work is inspired by Surrealism and he was also noted for his work as an experimental avant-garde filmmaker as well as artist.

Cornell's art work included collected found objects which he assembled into boxes, creating 'shadow boxes' by which he became known for. These were often covered by a glass pane and organised into a juxtaposed position, allowing light and shape of the surfaces to work together. The main idea behind this work was for him to create a visual representation of the elements to our imagination that we can't ordinarily see, such as our memories, dreams, ideas and thought processes - and collate these all into one collection.

The 'uncanny' is a theme that is consistently present throughout Cornell's art work; as an artist he was concerned with the idea of turning everyday items into something mysterious and almost magical. In doing so, the viewer sees a seemingly ordinary looking object and is drawn into reconsidering the item and it's value in a new light.

The way that his artwork distorts the viewer's perception of time is another way that the theme of the uncanny is present. Showcasing objects from the past in modern forms, as well as using symbolism to suggest more abstract concepts (e.g. part of an old, destructed wind up clock to show the passing of time) gives his work a nostalgic theme in a modern environment.

Image source : http://www.tate.org.uk/art/artists/joseph-cornell-946