The
Minimal movement set out to recapture sculpture in a state of independence.
That is, independence from the tremendous overuse of nature portrayed
in sculptures. The Minimalist painters rejected sculpture as a form
of self-expression. The movement received much criticism from the public,
who found it difficult to consider how a row of cubes, or how two rectangles
sitting side by side could be considered an artistic accomplishment.
Most people at the time felt that art should have some presence of artistic
achievement, but unlike public desire, the Minimal artists left no trace
of art in their work. They used only the simplest of design and material
to portray their sculpture in a clear and unmistakable manner.