Meaning: Donald Judd, a prominent figure in the minimalist art movement, made this statement in the context of the evolving nature of art and its relationship to morality. Judd's quote reflects a broader shift in the art world towards a rejection of absolute or general moral principles, suggesting that contemporary art is no longer concerned with upholding traditional moral standards.

In the context of art, the denial of absolute or general morality indicates a departure from traditional artistic norms and values. Throughout history, art has often been used as a means of expressing moral and ethical messages, reflecting societal values and beliefs. However, as Judd suggests, contemporary art has moved away from this paradigm, embracing a more relativistic and subjective approach to morality.

One interpretation of Judd's statement is that contemporary art has become more focused on individual expression and subjective interpretation, rather than adhering to a set of universal moral principles. This shift may be seen as a reflection of broader cultural changes, including the rejection of rigid moral codes in favor of a more fluid and open-ended approach to ethics.

The denial of absolute morality in art can also be understood as a rejection of dogma and authoritarianism within the art world. Historically, art has been used as a tool for promoting specific moral and political agendas, often under the control of powerful institutions or individuals. Judd's statement may be interpreted as a call for artists to resist such external pressures and to assert their autonomy in shaping their own moral and ethical perspectives.

Furthermore, Judd's quote may also reflect a broader philosophical shift towards moral relativism in contemporary society. The rejection of absolute morality in art mirrors a larger trend in which traditional moral frameworks are increasingly viewed as culturally specific and open to interpretation. This relativistic approach to morality is reflected in the diversity of perspectives and values present in contemporary art, as artists explore a wide range of moral and ethical themes without conforming to a singular, overarching moral doctrine.

It is important to note that Judd's perspective may not be universally shared within the art world, and there are certainly artists who continue to engage with absolute or general morality in their work. However, his statement sheds light on the complex and evolving relationship between art and morality in the modern era.

In conclusion, Donald Judd's quote encapsulates a significant shift in the art world towards a denial of absolute or general morality. This rejection of traditional moral standards reflects a broader cultural and philosophical movement towards moral relativism and individual autonomy. By distancing art from rigid moral codes and embracing a more diverse and subjective approach to ethics, contemporary artists are challenging conventional notions of morality and opening up new possibilities for creative expression. Judd's words invite us to reconsider the role of morality in art and to engage with the complex and multifaceted ways in which artists navigate ethical questions in their work.