L’ARC DE TRIOMPHE, WRAPPED

“Arc de Triomphe, Wrapped”, an art installation by Christo and Jeanne-Claude, to be realized in 2021 in Paris.The work involved wrapping the Arc de Triomphe with sheets of silvered fabric and secured with red ropes, a work that recalls Christo’s iconic practice of ‘encapsulating’ historical monuments and public places.

The work not only transformed a national symbol of Paris, but also created a visual experience that altered the perception of the monument.

The choice of fabric, which swayed and shimmered in the sunlight, gave new life and a sense of lightness to the majestic Arc de Triomphe, transforming it into a temporary and dynamic vision.

This project, reflecting Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s philosophy of making art accessible to the public through temporary installations, was realized posthumously, as Christo passed away in 2020.

The work provoked a great emotional reaction among the public, attracted by the unusual combination of beauty, challenge and temporariness, that have been hallmarks of the work of this artist couple.