The Saffron River in Central Park

For two weeks in 2005, Central Park was transformed by 7,503 saffron fabric gates. Stretching across 23 miles of paths, the installation acted like a golden river moving through the winter landscape.

Artists Christo and Jeanne-Claude spent decades fighting for the right to realize this massive vision. The steel structures held flowing nylon panels that rippled with every gust of wind, contrasting sharply against the stark, grey city trees. While the project lasted only sixteen days, it drew millions of visitors and completely redefined the park's familiar geometry. It remains a legendary example of how public art can temporarily reinvent a famous urban landmark.