key term - Untitled (stack)

Definition

Untitled (stack) is an artwork created by Donald Judd in 1967, consisting of a series of identical, rectangular boxes made from metal, arranged vertically. This piece is a prime example of Minimalism, characterized by its simplicity, industrial materials, and emphasis on form over content. The work challenges traditional notions of sculpture and painting by creating a three-dimensional experience that focuses on the viewer's perception and interaction with space.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Donald Judd designed Untitled (stack) using stainless steel and Plexiglas, showcasing the clean lines and precise geometry associated with Minimalism.
2. The vertical arrangement of the boxes in Untitled (stack) creates a dialogue between the artwork and the surrounding space, altering how viewers engage with their environment.
3. Unlike traditional sculpture that often conveys narratives or emotions, Untitled (stack) prioritizes the object's presence and the viewer's physical interaction with it.
4. Judd's work is part of a broader movement that sought to remove personal expression from art, focusing instead on clarity and objectivity.
5. Untitled (stack) exemplifies Judd's rejection of conventional artistic techniques and materials, emphasizing how art can be experienced in a direct and unmediated way.

Review Questions

• How does Untitled (stack) exemplify the core principles of Minimalism?
  • Untitled (stack) showcases the key principles of Minimalism through its use of industrial materials and geometric forms. The piece's repetitive structure emphasizes simplicity and objecthood, while its vertical arrangement invites viewers to engage with the surrounding space rather than focusing on decorative elements. This aligns with Minimalism's goal of stripping away excess to reveal the essence of the artwork.
• Discuss the significance of material choice in Judd's Untitled (stack) within the context of Minimalist art.
  • The choice of stainless steel and Plexiglas in Untitled (stack) underscores Judd's commitment to using industrial materials that convey a sense of permanence and clarity. These materials are devoid of traditional artistic connotations, allowing the viewer to focus solely on form and space. This choice reflects Minimalism’s intent to challenge conventional art forms by prioritizing objectivity over personal expression.
• Evaluate how Untitled (stack) impacts the viewer's perception of space and environment in relation to Minimalist philosophy.
  • Untitled (stack) fundamentally alters the viewer's perception of space by positioning itself as an integral part of its environment rather than as an isolated object. This integration invites viewers to actively navigate around and through the work, leading them to reconsider their relationship with physical space. By doing so, Judd encourages a deeper engagement with both the artwork and its surroundings, highlighting Minimalism's aim to provoke thought about perception and experience.

Related terms

Minimalism:

An art movement that emerged in the late 1950s, emphasizing simplicity, geometric forms, and the use of industrial materials.

Industrial Materials: Materials typically used in manufacturing and construction, such as metal or concrete, which are often employed in Minimalist art to highlight their inherent qualities.

Perception: The process by which individuals interpret sensory information, a key focus in Minimalist art as it engages viewers in their physical surroundings.