Meaning: This quote by artist Donald Judd provides insight into his connection with the work of Edward Hopper, as well as his own perspective on the American environment. Donald Judd was a prominent figure in the minimalist art movement, known for his geometric forms and use of industrial materials. Edward Hopper, on the other hand, was a renowned realist painter whose work often depicted urban and rural scenes, capturing a sense of isolation and alienation.

In the quote, Judd expresses a sense of kinship with Hopper, suggesting that they both navigate similar environments and have strong reactions to the appearance of the country. He acknowledges the complexity of his feelings, describing the landscape as "dull and spare," indicating a sense of desolation or emptiness, while also acknowledging the intricacy of his emotional responses, indicating that his feelings are not easily categorized as either positive or negative.

The reference to Hopper's work suggests that Judd finds resonance in the way Hopper depicted the American environment. Hopper's paintings often portrayed scenes of urban and rural America, characterized by a sense of stillness and solitude. Judd's identification with Hopper's themes and aesthetic choices indicates a shared perception of the environment and a similar emotional response to it.

Judd's use of the phrase "pretty dull and spare" to describe the American landscape reflects his minimalist sensibility. As a proponent of minimalism, Judd was interested in reducing art to its essential elements, often favoring simplicity and clarity. This inclination toward minimalism likely influenced his perception of the American environment as being devoid of excess or ornamentation, emphasizing its starkness and simplicity.

Furthermore, Judd's mention of "strong reactions" suggests that his engagement with the environment goes beyond mere observation; it evokes an emotional response. This emotional intensity aligns with the notion of minimalism as a form of direct, unmediated expression. Judd's acknowledgment of the complexity of his reactions also reflects the multifaceted nature of minimalism, which often encompasses a range of emotional and intellectual responses.

In considering the quote within the context of Judd's artistic practice, it becomes evident that his observations of the American environment likely informed his approach to art-making. His emphasis on the visual and emotional impact of the environment aligns with his interest in creating art that engages directly with the viewer's perception and experience.

Overall, Donald Judd's quote provides a glimpse into his personal connection with the American environment and his affinity with the work of Edward Hopper. It offers valuable insight into the ways in which artists perceive and respond to their surroundings, as well as the ways in which these perceptions can shape their artistic practice. Judd's reflections on the landscape and his emotional reactions to it shed light on the intersection of art, environment, and personal experience.