Posts Tagged ‘Christo’

International Artist in the Park

The Gates - For 16 days in February 2005, Central Park in NYC was transformed into a saffron river by the artists, Christo and Jeanne Claude.

In technical terms, it was 7,503 vinyl gates, with free-flowing nylon fabric panels, placed over 23 miles of walkways.

The two artists worked on the project for almost 25 years before it’s installation in the park.   To learn more about the project, visit http://www.christojeanneclaude.net

While I could talk about the determination of Christo negotiating with city officials, or the millions of people who witnessed the event – I want to talk about the concept of “Art” .

By definition “Art” is a creative expression which evokes an emotional reaction.

Many people questioned whether the “Gates” were actually artwork.   How could orange nylon flags be considered artistic?

It was almost comical because their very reaction of doubt or curiosity, confirmed that the project was artistic.

Seeing the project come to life was something I will never forget.  I stood at Sheep’s Meadow and compared the artists’ conceptual drawings with the reality in front of me.  I walked with thousands under the Gates and through the walkways of the park.  Tears came to my eyes at the immensity of the project and that Christo made his vision come to life.

Christo once said:  “It appears to be monumental only because it’s art.”

Will you look around your neighborhood to find, and see the art that is there?   It could be a sculpture in someone’s yard, or graffiti, or even the sky colors at sunset.  Appreciating these small things can make our lives so much richer.  We can all enjoy art, we just have to look for it.

P.S.  Christo and Jeanne-Claude are working on a project in Arkansas for 2011-2012.  I hope to see you there!  Joy