The Minimalist movement began in the 1950’s and continued through to the 60’s and 70’s. Minimal art is characterized by its simplicity in both form and content, where personal expression is removed in order to achieve this. The intention of minimalist artists is to allow the audience to view a composition more intensely because the distractions of theme etc. have been removed. Minimalism can be detected as early as the 18th century where the artist Goethe constructed an Alatar of Good Fortune that consisted of a stone sphere and a cube.
In addition, in the 1920’s artists such as Malevich and Duchamp created works that suggested at minimalist intentions. The Minimalist movement is similar to Conceptual Art in that the outcome is used to express a theory. Minimalism is also similar to Pop Art because of the impersonal attitude, and Land Art because of the use of simple forms. Minimalist artists of the time reacted against Abstract Expressionism, which is demonstrated by the stark canvases, simple installations, and minimalist sculptures. Some of the most famous minimalist artists include Dan Flavin, Carl Andre, Donald Judd, and Ellsworth.
Carl Andre
Carl Andre was and American Minimalist artist born in 1935 in Massachusetts. He studied art in America as well as in Europe, and went on to become an intelligence officer with the USA army. In 1957 Carl Andre moved to New York City to work as an editor, and in the 1960's he worked as a railroad conductor. Carl Andre's first solo exhibition was in 1965. Carl Andre's works are known for their use of natural and simple materials such as metal plates, bricks, and concrete blocks - all used to create textures and patterns.
One of Carl Andre's first distinctive works is his Cedar Piece, which is made up of a stack of wood to create a tall column. In the 1960's Carl Andre began making 'scatter pieces' works using wood and metal pieces. Carl Andre's 1972 exhibition in London caused an uproar from the public who claimed that his art work was a waste of public money. Carl Andre also created concrete poetry, which combined words and sculpture. Although not all of Carl Andre's works were accepted by all, he was an important contributor to the Minimalist movement.
