What was the inspiration behind Donald Judd's work?

Donald Judd found inspiration in various sources for his work. One of the notable influences on his artistic practice was the Minimalist movement, which emerged in the 1960s and emphasized the use of simple geometric forms and industrial materials. Judd's exploration of clean lines, repetition, and the relationship between object and space aligned with the principles of Minimalism. He was particularly drawn to the idea of creating art that existed in its own right, without any external references or symbolic meaning. This focus on the physicality and materiality of objects became a core aspect of his artistic philosophy. Additionally, Judd's experiences with architecture and design played a significant role in inspiring his work. He studied philosophy and art history in college but later pursued a career in art and design writing and criticism. His exposure to the field of architecture, especially his time spent in Marfa, Texas, where he eventually established the Chinati Foundation, greatly impacted his approach to art. The vast desert landscape and the abandoned buildings he encountered there influenced his decision to create large-scale installations. Judd's experience with architecture heightened his awareness of space and its interaction with objects, leading him to produce artworks that were site-specific and conceived with the surrounding environment in mind.