Marcel Duchamp, “LHOOQ” (which sounds like “Elle a chaud au cul” → “she’s got a hot ass”)

Table of Contents

Explanation

Appropriation is a technique where an image, object, or text is sourced from an original context replicated in a new one. Context is a pretty open concept here. It can mean the physical location, the time period, or the people involved. In any case, the changing of context produces a juxtaposition which in turn constructs meaning.

“when two objects are brought together, no matter how far apart their original contexts may be, a relationship is always formed.”

• Guy Debord

Recontextualization calls into question certain meta aspects of the original, such as authorship, authority, and originality. Philosopher Nicolas Bourriaud describes appropriation as “continuing the conversation.”

The target can be transformed in this process, although in most cases the act of recontextualization alone is the primary means of communication.

Differences from parody

• If parody is about “repetition with difference,” then appropriation can be understood as “repetition with displacement.”
• Parody requires clarity in how the repetition is different from the original. Appropriation is less concerned with this clarity, and in fact the point is often to challenge the boundary between original and recreation.
• Parody is about exaggeration and poking fun. Appropriation is not necessarily connected to humor.
• Both however rely on a certain recognizability in the original/source