Finding 31: Carl Andre Opening

The exhibition Carl Andre ran from September 29– November 22, 1970 at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York and consisted of both sculpture and poems. The document seen here reflects Andre's belief that all museums should have free admission. In a letter to Thomas M. Messer, Andre explained that he objected to the socially elitist atmosphere at most museum openings. Furthermore, he requested that there be no private opening for his exhibition and that admission fees be suspended for the first day. Andre’s request was granted and there was no private preview of this exhibition and the museum opened free to the public on the opening day. In lieu of a private preview, Andre gave a reading of his poetry.

—Rachel Chatalbash, archivist