"L’Arc de Triomphe, Wrapped" was one of Christo and Jeanne-Claude's most long-awaited and iconic projects, realized posthumously in 2021. This monumental installation involved wrapping the famous Arc de Triomphe in Paris with approximately 25,000 square meters of recyclable polypropylene fabric in silvery blue, secured with 3,000 meters of red rope. The project was a continuation of Christo and Jeanne-Claude's legacy of transforming historical monuments and public spaces into temporary works of art.
The idea for wrapping the Arc de Triomphe was first conceived by Christo in 1961 when he lived in Paris. Over the decades, the project remained a part of the artists' vision, even as they completed other large-scale installations around the world. After Jeanne-Claude’s passing in 2009 and Christo’s death in 2020, the project was realized according to their detailed plans, with the assistance of Christo's team and support from the Centre des Monuments Nationaux and the city of Paris (The Art Story) (Kaldor Art Projects).
The installation process began in early September 2021 and involved a team of workers who meticulously wrapped the Arc de Triomphe. The fabric was designed to shimmer and change appearance with the light and weather, creating a dynamic and ephemeral visual experience. The project officially opened to the public on September 18, 2021, and remained on display until October 3, 2021 (The Art Story) (Kaldor Art Projects).
"L’Arc de Triomphe, Wrapped" attracted millions of visitors and received widespread media coverage. The project allowed people to experience the iconic monument in a new and unexpected way, emphasizing themes of transformation, temporality, and the relationship between art and architecture. The wrapping of the Arc de Triomphe also served as a tribute to Christo and Jeanne-Claude's artistic vision and their ability to inspire wonder and dialogue through their work (Art in Context) (Kaldor Art Projects).
The significance of "L’Arc de Triomphe, Wrapped" extends beyond its visual impact. It marked the culmination of a lifelong dream for Christo and Jeanne-Claude and demonstrated the enduring power of their artistic legacy. The project was entirely self-financed through the sale of Christo’s preparatory sketches, drawings, and models, maintaining the artists' commitment to financial independence and creative freedom (The Art Story) (Wikipedia).
"L’Arc de Triomphe, Wrapped" stands as a testament to Christo and Jeanne-Claude's ability to transform the familiar into the extraordinary, inviting viewers to see the world through a different lens and appreciate the fleeting beauty of their art. The project remains a poignant reminder of their innovative spirit and lasting impact on the art world (Kaldor Art Projects) (Wikipedia).