Skip to main content
1990s
1990s

The 1990s were a period of remarkable achievements and continued innovation for Christo and Jeanne-Claude. During this decade, they realized some of their most iconic and technically challenging projects, further cementing their legacy as pioneers of environmental art. "The Umbrellas" (1984-1991): Although initiated in the 1980s, "The Umbrellas" project was completed in October 1991. This ambitious installation featured 1,340 blue umbrellas in Ibaraki, Japan, and 1,760 yellow umbrellas in California, USA. The project aimed to highlight the cultural and environmental contrasts between the two regions. The umbrellas, each 19 feet high and 28 feet wide, were strategically placed to interact with the landscapes and draw attention to their unique characteristics. Despite the tragic accidents during the installation, the project attracted millions of visitors and showcased Christo and Jeanne-Claude's ability to engage with large-scale public art (The Art Story) (Artland Magazine). "Wrapped Reichstag" (1971-1995): One of the most significant and celebrated projects of the 1990s was the wrapping of the Reichstag building in Berlin. This project involved covering the historic structure with 100,000 square meters of silver fabric, secured with 15 kilometers of blue rope. The idea was first conceived in 1971, but it took over two decades of negotiation and planning to bring it to fruition. The wrapping of the Reichstag, completed in June 1995, symbolized Germany's reunification and the transparency of its democracy. The project attracted millions of visitors and generated widespread media attention, making it one of the most memorable works of their career (Wikipedia) (The Art Story) (Artnet News). "Wrapped Trees" (1997-1998): This project, completed at the Fondation Beyeler and Berower Park in Riehen, Switzerland, involved wrapping 178 trees in 55,000 square meters of polyester fabric. The wrapping process highlighted the natural forms of the trees, transforming the landscape into a surreal and dreamlike environment. The project was realized during the fall and winter, emphasizing the changing seasons and the temporary nature of the installation. "Wrapped Trees" exemplified Christo and Jeanne-Claude's continued exploration of wrapping as a method to alter perceptions and engage with the natural world (Artnet News). "The Wall - Wrapped Roman Wall" (1993): This project involved wrapping part of the Aurelian Wall in Rome, Italy, with fabric. The installation drew attention to the historical significance of the ancient wall while transforming it into a contemporary work of art. The wrapping process emphasized the wall's architectural features and invited viewers to consider the interplay between history and modernity. This project continued Christo and Jeanne-Claude's tradition of engaging with culturally significant landmarks and transforming them through their unique artistic vision (Artland Magazine). Gallery Exhibitions and Fundraising: Throughout the 1990s, Christo and Jeanne-Claude continued to exhibit their preparatory drawings, sketches, and models in galleries worldwide. These exhibitions were essential for raising funds for their large-scale projects, as the sale of these artworks provided the financial resources needed to realize their ambitious installations. This self-financing model allowed them to maintain complete artistic control and independence, ensuring that their vision was executed without external constraints (Artland Magazine) (Artnet News). The 1990s were marked by Christo and Jeanne-Claude's ability to realize some of their most complex and high-profile projects. Their work during this decade continued to push the boundaries of environmental art, engaging with historical, cultural, and natural themes. Through their art, they created temporary but unforgettable experiences that invited viewers to see the world through a new lens, leaving a lasting impact on the landscape of contemporary art.