exquisite corpse

The Exquisite Corpse

Exquisite corpse is a method by which a collection of words or images is collectively assembled, the result being known as the exquisite corpse …. Each collaborator adds to a composition in sequence… by being allowed to see the end of what the previous person contributed.

The technique was invented by Surrealists … Surrealism is a cultural movement that began [in France] in the early 1920s, and is best known for the visual artworks and writings of the group members. Surrealist works feature the element of surprise, unexpected juxtapositions and non sequitur…)

The name is derived from a phrase that resulted when Surrealists first played the game, "Le cadavre exquis boira le vin nouveau." ("The exquisite corpse will drink the new wine.")

The game was adapted to drawing and collage,

producing a result similar to children's books in which the pages were cut into thirds, the top third pages showing the head of a person or animal, the middle third the torso, and the bottom third the legs, with children having the ability to "mix and match" by turning pages …

(thanks to Wikipedia.com)

Exquisite Corpse collaborations have been utilized in

the production of many art forms including computer-generated art, graphic novels, animated and feature films, as well as in musical composition. Early Surrealist

Exquisite Corpse

Exquisite Corpses byfoundingSurrealist artists

Art student colored pencil drawings…

Exquisite Corpses are not always purely figurative…

Pencil and ink folded-paperExquisite Corpses

Exquisite Corpse utilizing photo-collage

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