"Surrounded Islands" was one of Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s most ambitious and visually stunning projects, executed between 1980 and 1983. This environmental artwork involved surrounding 11 islands in Miami's Biscayne Bay with 6.5 million square feet of bright pink woven polypropylene fabric, creating a striking contrast against the blue waters and lush green vegetation of the islands.

The idea for "Surrounded Islands" was conceived in 1980, and the project was realized in May 1983.

The preparation and execution of the project involved extensive logistical planning and collaboration with environmental scientists, engineers, and local authorities to ensure that the installation would not harm the natural habitat. The artists conducted numerous environmental impact studies and worked closely with a team of marine biologists, ornithologists, and mammal experts to address any potential concerns (Art in Context) (Kaldor Art Projects).

One of the significant challenges of the project was obtaining the necessary permits and permissions. Christo and Jeanne-Claude engaged in lengthy negotiations with local, state, and federal agencies, as well as with private landowners. They ultimately secured the required approvals, demonstrating their ability to navigate complex bureaucratic processes. The artists also organized a comprehensive cleanup of the islands, removing 40 tons of debris, including abandoned refrigerators and mattresses, to prepare for the installation (Art in Context) (Kaldor Art Projects).

The installation process itself was a massive undertaking. Over 430 workers, including professional seamstresses and construction workers, were involved in sewing the fabric and positioning it around the islands. The fabric was specially manufactured to be water-resistant and durable, and it was cut and sewn to fit the contours of each island. The workers used floating booms to keep the fabric in place, ensuring that it did not interfere with marine life or drift away (The Art Story) (Art in Context).

"Surrounded Islands" was unveiled on May 7, 1983, and remained in place for two weeks. During this period, the artwork attracted widespread public and media attention, drawing thousands of visitors to Biscayne Bay. The installation's vibrant pink color created a surreal and mesmerizing visual effect, transforming the landscape and inviting viewers to see the islands and the bay in a new light. The project was documented extensively through photographs and films, capturing the ephemeral beauty and scale of the installation (The Art Story) (National Gallery of Art).

The significance of "Surrounded Islands" lies not only in its aesthetic impact but also in its exploration of the relationship between art and the environment. Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s careful planning and environmental considerations highlighted the potential for large-scale art projects to engage with and enhance natural landscapes without causing harm. The project remains a celebrated example of their work, demonstrating their innovative approach to environmental art and their ability to create temporary installations that leave a lasting impression (Art in Context) (Kaldor Art Projects).