In the face of pollution and water scarcity, protecting rivers and lakes is more urgent than ever. A prime example is the ambitious Riachuelo System project, aimed at cleaning the polluted waters of the Riachuelo River in Buenos Aires.
Beyond their fundamental role for humanity, bodies of water also serve as canvases for extraordinary art installations. These works highlight the vitality of these landscapes, transforming them into platforms for creative expression.
Let’s explore five installations that have made history.
Spiral Jetty at the Great Salt Lake, Robert Smithson
One of the most iconic examples of Land Art, Spiral Jetty by Robert Smithson was unveiled in 1970 on the northeastern shore of the Great Salt Lake in Utah, USA. Designed to reflect the lake’s natural environment, the 457-meter-long spiral extends into the water, interacting with the tides, climate, and salt formations on its surface.
Over time, the Spiral Jetty has been alternately submerged and exposed, depending on water levels, inviting viewers to engage with it physically and experience the ongoing dialogue between art, nature, and time.
Surrounded Islands in Biscayne Bay, Christo and Jeanne-Claude
In 1983, Christo and Jeanne-Claude completed Surrounded Islands in Biscayne Bay. Eleven islands were encircled with over 600,000 square meters of pink polypropylene fabric, draping the water’s surface and following the natural contours of the islands. The installation was monitored day and night by a team on inflatable boats, ensuring its preservation.
For two weeks, Surrounded Islands was visible from land, water, and air, with the vibrant pink fabric blending harmoniously with the lush tropical vegetation of the uninhabited islands.
Floating Piers on Lake Iseo, Christo
After two years of planning, Christo unveiled his Floating Piers project in 2016 on Lake Iseo. This site-specific installation consisted of a network of floating walkways that rested on the lake’s surface, connecting the mainland to the islands and offering visitors the unique sensation of walking on water.
Composed of platforms covered in a shimmering golden fabric, the piers glowed under the sunlight, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding landscape. Despite its brief duration of just 16 days, the Floating Piers attracted over one million visitors.
Underwater Pavilions, Doug Aitken
Underwater Pavilions by Doug Aitken is a series of three submerged sculptures beneath the ocean’s surface, serving as observatories for marine life. Anchored to the ocean floor, each structure features mirrored surfaces that reflect the underwater landscape, creating a mesmerizing kaleidoscopic effect, while other areas have rough, rock-like textures.
Influenced by ocean currents and the time of day, these art installations invite viewers to contemplate the rhythms of the ocean and engage in its conservation.
Descension, Anish Kapoor
First unveiled in 2014, Descension by Anish Kapoor is a vortex of dark water contained within a large steel basin. Viewers are drawn to watch as the water spirals endlessly downward, creating the illusion of a deep, bottomless void.
In constant motion, the swirling water appears almost alive, evoking a powerful force beyond human control or comprehension.
