From the Archives: Memories of Christo’s Running Fence

This article, originally published in 2016 and updated to reflect Christo's passing in 2020 and Jeanne-Claude's in 2009, revisits the monumental art installation "Running Fence" by Christo and Jeanne-Claude. In 1976, this 24.5-mile long, nearly 20-foot high fabric fence was erected across Sonoma and Marin farmlands, extending into the Pacific Ocean. The article explores the significant impact of this temporary artwork, not only on the landscape but also on the local community and the land-use policies of Sonoma County. The genesis of "Running Fence" began in 1972 when Christo, accompanied by Jeanne-Claude, approached local ranchers like Joe Pozzi with his ambitious proposal. Initially mistaken for an itinerant laborer, Christo's charisma and genuine nature quickly won over the skeptical farming community. He and Jeanne-Claude immersed themselves in the agrarian culture of west county, building trust and personal connections with 59 families whose land lay along the proposed route. This personal engagement was crucial, as many local farmers and ranchers became staunch supporters of the project, driven by their admiration for Christo's character and his commitment to realizing his artistic vision. However, the project faced considerable opposition, primarily from environmentalists concerned about its impact on the land and some locals who questioned its artistic merit. This opposition led to the formation of the "Committee to Stop the Running Fence" and triggered a lengthy and contentious approval process involving the California Coastal Commission, the Marin County Planning Commission, and the Sonoma County Planning Commission. The bureaucratic hurdles and public debates lasted over three years, with meetings often marked by intense emotions and differing views on art, land use, and development. Despite the fierce resistance, Christo maintained a serene and optimistic demeanor. He famously considered the entire process—including the meetings, environmental impact studies, and public discourse—as an integral part of the art itself. Barbara Gonnella, owner of the Union Hotel in Occidental and Joe Pozzi’s sister, highlighted this aspect, noting that even if the fence hadn't been physically constructed, Christo would have considered the project a success due to the engagement it generated. The collaboration between Christo and Jeanne-Claude emphasized their deep connection to each other and their belief in art as a means of connecting with humanity and integrating with the landscape and its people. The article recounts the eventual triumph of the project, with hundreds of volunteers, including a young Joe Pozzi, participating in the construction of the fence. Christo himself was actively involved in the labor, wearing an OSHA-required hard hat and working alongside the volunteers. Although the "Running Fence" stood for only two weeks before being dismantled, its memory profoundly impacted those who witnessed it. Dave Steiner, a former Sonoma County Planning Commissioner, noted Christo's subversive streak, particularly his decision to extend the fence into the sea despite the Coastal Commission's initial refusal, a move seen by supporters as essential to the project's integrity. Ultimately, "Running Fence" played a significant role in shaping public consciousness regarding land use in Sonoma County. Brian Kahn, a former Sonoma County supervisor, suggests that the art installation galvanized public discussion around the county's general plan, which aimed to manage growth and preserve landscapes. The project helped shift popular support towards a more contained and orderly development approach, contributing to the preservation of Sonoma Valley and the west county's natural beauty. The experience of the "Running Fence" fostered a sense of collective accomplishment and brought the diverse community of Sonoma County together, creating a lasting legacy that transcended its temporary physical presence. #ChristoAndJeanneClaude #RunningFence #ArtInstallation #SonomaCounty #MarinCounty #PublicArt #LandUsePolicy #EnvironmentalArt #CommunityEngagement #ChristoAndJeanneClaude #RunningFence #ArtInstallation #SonomaCounty #MarinCounty #PublicArt #LandUsePolicy #EnvironmentalArt #CommunityEngagement