The Horn Book
 In New York City during the winter of 2005, internationally famous artists Christo and Jeanne-Claude unveiled their latest endeavor, The Gates,Central Park, New York City, 1979–2005. With twenty-three miles of saffron-nylon-paneled gateways, it was one of the largest works of art ever created and drew spectators from all over the world. A monumental undertaking, it required three decades to accomplish. Authors Greenberg and Jordan do more than just chronicle the evolution of The Gates and document the past pursuits of Christo and Jeanne-Claude; they introduce young readers to the nature of artistic vision, the role of collaboration in the creative process, and the work habits and dedication of artists. The writing is lively, and quotes from Christo and Jeanne-Claude are spread throughout, giving a more personal context to the story. Crisp, vibrant photographs and detailed reproductions of Christo’s drawings show both the behind-the-scenes labor and the finished projects. Interesting statistics on The Gates as well as a listing of selected past projects are appended. Greenberg and Jordan—not to mention Christo and Jeanne-Claude—will encourage children to expand their visions of what art is and help them to better understand the devotion and effort that go into making an artistic dream materialize into a work of art.
—Michael Santangelo
BOOK LIST
In 2005, the dull gray of a New York City winter was interrupted when two indomitable artists, Christo and his partner, Jeanne-Claude, brought Central Park brilliantly to life with their outdoor work The Gates. Bright streams of saffron fabric panels attached to gates covered in the same material followed 23 miles of walkways through the park, offering delighted viewers an astounding sight, or as the authors put it, “a painting with nature as its canvas.” This book, chronicling both The Gates as well as the artists’ other projects, is as thoughtful, eye-opening, and meticulous as the work it celebrates. Using original research, the authors begin with an overview of the The Gates—its scope, yes, but just as important, its purpose. In fact, throughout, Greenberg and Jordan strive to explain why the two artists would spend millions of dollars and years of time on artistic explosions that only last a matter of weeks. That they can make understandable to a young audience the concept of public ownership of art, as well as the freedom that comes with releasing the idea of permanence, is a tribute to their writing. Working in tandem are beautifully reproduced photographs (including a fabulous foldout) that chronicles other grand projects, past and future. Solid back matter complements a stunningly designed book that can’t help but excite readers about art. Grades 6-9.
—Ilene Cooper
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL
Grade 3 Up—This book offers an overview of the careers of the husband-and-wife team that has been creating large outdoor art installations since the 1960s. The authors begin by detailing the process that led to the unveiling of The Gates in New York's Central Park (2005), then dip back to 1935, when the artists were born, and provide some biographical information. Christo's early career is touched upon with the inclusion of Wrapped Toy Horse (1963) and various small-scale works. Images are predominately full-page color spreads (there's a foldout of Christo in his studio and, on the other side, The Gates) with some black-and-white personal photos. Readers will be impressed with the ambitious creations and may want to know more about them. This visually appealing title is a solid choice where there is interest in the subject.
—Lisa Glasscock, Columbine Public Library, Littleton, CO
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