Meaning: The quote "Building is just skilled labor, I suppose. It's a lot of work. I don't mind other people building them, but the way things go together and are made is interesting to me; I like that a lot" by Donald Judd, an American artist and influential figure in the Minimalist art movement, reflects his deep appreciation for the process of creation and construction. Judd's words convey his fascination with the intricate and meticulous nature of building, as well as his admiration for the craftsmanship and attention to detail involved in the creation of physical structures and objects.

Judd's artistic practice was characterized by a focus on simplicity, geometry, and industrial materials. He was known for creating minimalist sculptures and installations that emphasized the relationship between form, space, and the surrounding environment. His interest in the way things are constructed and assembled is evident in his artwork, which often featured precise, modular forms and clean, unadorned surfaces.

In the context of Judd's quote, the notion of "building" extends beyond traditional construction and architecture to encompass the act of creating and fabricating in a broader sense. Judd's perspective suggests a deep respect for the process of making, whether it involves physical structures, artistic creations, or any form of skilled labor. His emphasis on the "way things go together and are made" underscores the significance of craftsmanship and the inherent beauty found in the assembly of components to form a cohesive whole.

Judd's interest in the process of construction and assembly can be seen as a reflection of his broader artistic philosophy, which prioritized clarity, precision, and the essential qualities of materials. His work often featured standardized, industrially produced elements arranged in systematic compositions, highlighting the inherent characteristics of the materials and the relationships between individual components.

Furthermore, Judd's admiration for the act of building resonates with the principles of Minimalism, which sought to strip away excess and focus on the fundamental aspects of form and structure. In the context of his quote, Judd's fascination with the way things are made can be interpreted as a celebration of the inherent beauty and integrity of well-crafted objects and structures.

In summary, Donald Judd's quote encapsulates his profound interest in the process of creation and construction, as well as his reverence for the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail involved in building. His words offer insight into his artistic mindset and his appreciation for the way things come together to form cohesive, purposeful creations. Judd's emphasis on the act of building as skilled labor underscores the value he placed on the process of making and the intrinsic beauty found in the careful assembly of elements.