Carl Andre was and American Minimalist artist born in 1935 in Massachusetts. He studied art in America as well as in Europe, and went on to become an intelligence officer with the USA army. In 1957 Carl Andre moved to New York City to work as an editor, and in the 1960's he worked as a railroad conductor. Carl Andre's first solo exhibition was in 1965. Carl Andre's works are known for their use of natural and simple materials such as metal plates, bricks, and concrete blocks - all used to create textures and patterns. One of Carl Andre's first distinctive works is his Cedar Piece, which is made up of a stack of wood to create a tall column. In the 1960's Carl Andre began making 'scatter pieces' works using wood and metal pieces. Carl Andre's 1972 exhibition in London caused an uproar from the public who claimed that his art work was a waste of public money. Carl Andre also created concrete poetry, which combined words and sculpture. Although not all of Carl Andre's works were accepted by all, he was an important contributor to the Minimalist movement.
