Free Samples : Donald Judd (2024)

Free Samples : Donald Judd (2024)

 

September 5th at 1pm, as the VIP opening for The Armory Show in New York was beginning, I set up outside the entrance and started handing out “Free Donald Judd Samples” — small pieces of plywood sitting inside plastic portion cups. 

 

One person remarked, “That’s the only Judd I can afford!” Another passerby grabbed a sample and, before I could tell him it was wood, popped it in his mouth. He spit it out immediately and looked back at me scowling. 

 

Two German tourists just passing by were confused at first because they didn’t know who Donald Judd was. I explained that Donald Judd is a well known artist. “And you?” they asked. I said “No, I’m not so well known.” They collected their free samples and replied, “Not yet!”

 

I passed out samples for roughly 45mins before a state trooper approached to remove me and my unsanctioned conceptual art from the premises. Next thing I know, a group of Javits Center staff arrive. One of them grabbed my sign and ripped it up, and another informed me that trespassing on state property would lead to prison.

 

I didn’t know conceptual art had such serious consequences!