Covered in Color: Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s Fabrics of Freedom

Boxer focuses on the way that the early experiences of artist Christo (1935–2020) under authoritarian regimes shaped his large public works. While partner Jeanne-Claude (1935–2009) makes some appearances, the text focuses primarily on Christo. Beginning with his youth in Nazi-occupied and then Communist-controlled Bulgaria, urgent-sounding lines describe a budding artist who chafed under restrictions before finally escaping to Paris and beginning his reputation-defining work: wrapping structures including buildings, coastlines, monuments, and even islands in fabric. The narrative reaches its culmination with the creation of New York City’s The Gates, 26 years in the making per an author’s note. Chapman’s fluid, rainbow-hued, predominantly watercolor and gouache illustrations burst with movement—an ideal accompaniment befitting the artists’ aesthetic. Author and artist notes, endnotes, and sources conclude. Ages 4–8. (Aug.)