Here's how he employed it:
* Playful Contrasts: He often used smooth, polished surfaces for everyday objects like food, clothing, and furniture, juxtaposing them with rough, textured materials like burlap, canvas, and even soft, plush fabrics.
* Enhanced Realism: The textures he employed were meticulously chosen to mimic the real-life textures of the objects he was representing, adding to the illusion and highlighting the everyday nature of his subjects.
* Emphasis on Form: The use of texture helped highlight the form and shape of the objects, bringing attention to their physical qualities and creating a sense of tactile experience for the viewer.
* Subversion of Scale: Oldenburg's works often featured oversized sculptures, and the textures he employed added to the sense of playfulness and surrealism by exaggerating the familiar and making it strange.
In essence, Claes Oldenburg's use of texture was not just about aesthetics but also about conveying a message, creating a sense of humor, and inviting the viewer to engage with his work in a tactile and playful way.