Donald Judd
- Born:
- June 3, 1928, Excelsior Springs, Missouri, USA
- Died:
- February 12, 1994, New York City, New York, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Artist, Sculptor, Art Critic
Early Life and Education
- Served in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1947.
- Studied at the Art Students League of New York.
- B.S. in Philosophy from Columbia University (1953).
- M.A. in Art History from Columbia University (1962).
Career and Major Achievements
- Began his career as a painter before transitioning to three-dimensional works.
- Developed Minimalist art principles, emphasizing simplicity and industrial materials.
- His work challenged traditional notions of sculpture and the role of the artist.
- Established the Chinati Foundation in Marfa, Texas, a large-scale art museum and cultural center.
- Significant impact on contemporary art, influencing generations of artists.
- Known for his exploration of space, form, and material in his art.
Notable Works
- Stacked boxes in various materials (aluminum, stainless steel, plexiglass).
- Floor pieces and wall-mounted sculptures.
- Works at the Chinati Foundation, Marfa, Texas.
Exhibitions
- Solo exhibitions at major museums worldwide, including the Whitney Museum of American Art, the Tate Modern, and the Centre Pompidou.
- Participated in numerous group exhibitions showcasing Minimalist and contemporary art.
Legacy and Impact
Donald Judd is considered one of the most important artists of the 20th century. His Minimalist sculptures and theoretical writings have had a profound and lasting impact on the development of contemporary art. Juhani Pallasmaa biography of Donald, while not explicitly detailing the artist's entire life, would likely focus on the profound impact of his work on architectural thought, given Pallasmaa's own expertise. Judd's emphasis on space, material, and the experience of the viewer continues to inspire artists and architects today.