Donald Judd's 15 untitled works in concrete at the Chinati Foundation in Marfa, Texas (photo by Nan Palmero; via Flickr)
Benefiting are the Chinati Foundation and the Judd Foundation, both established by Judd in order to preserve his legacy. Thanks to the listing, the foundations will be able to apply for federal tax credits to offset restoration costs, and are additionally eligible to receive grant funds and technical assistance. Most of the structures Judd renovated date back to the late nineteenth and early twentieth century; all were restored by the artist with their original purpose in mind. The Chinati Foundation, which attracts visitors with its displays of work by artists of Judd’s era including John Chamberlain, Dan Flavin, and Judd himself, has charge of the Chamberlain Building, Ice Plant, and Locker Plant. The Judd Foundation operates the Architecture Office—which was heavily damaged in a fire last summer—as well as the Architecture Studio, Art Studio, Cobb House, Gatehouse, Ranch Office, Print Building, and Whyte Building.
“Through this designation, granted to the town of Marfa and Don’s buildings, we join a meaningful list of historic sites in the United States,” said Judd Foundation president Rainer Judd, the artist’s daughter. “Don had a profound regard and deep respect for the history and contributions of the Hispanic community that this nomination specifically recognizes. He believed that these efforts, reflected in the built environment of the town, should be preserved and celebrated. This national honor for Marfa is important to understanding our shared past and preserving these buildings for future generations.”