Proposed Christo Fabric Piece sparks Colorado Controversy
Over the River, (not “over the hill”) a canyon-spanning fabric awning planned to begin construction over the Arkansas River in southern Colorado has sparked protest and turmoil; project boosters see great art, economic opportunity, and tourism, rustics want to be left alone.
The NYT article gives reasons other than misanthropy for opposition. To wit, shady dealings and environmental degradation. Short-term economy over long-term. The ‘rustics’ want the river left alone, or at least six miles of it not killed. Christo should wrap-up his ego and tired motif and go away.
Don’t ALL of Christo’s works provoke controversy. As I recall, it took over a decade and multiple mayors before Christo got approval to do the Gates in Central Park. I showed my students the proposed piece and we all wondered how the vegetation would fare after being covered by fabric for numerous months.