Niki de Saint Phalle: Life & Work 2000–2002

 
Niki and Swiss architect Mario Botta begin a major sculpture/architecture project, Noah's Ark, in Jerusalem, which is inaugurated in 2001.

Through 2000, Niki works on the Black Heroes series, an homage to prominent African-Americans, including athletes and musicians such as Miles Davis and Louis Armstrong.

Queen Califia's Magical Circle is begun in Escondido, California in 2000. She draws much of its imagery from her interpretations of early California history, myth, and legend, Native Americans and Meso-American culture, and the study of indigenous plant and wildlife.

That year Niki is also awarded the 12th Praemium Imperial Prize in Japan, considered to be the equivalent to the Nobel Prize in the art world.

In 2001 Niki receives a commission to redesign and ornament three rooms in the historic 17th century Grotto built in Hannover's Royal Herrenhausen Garden, originally decorated with shells, crystals, and minerals, which were removed in the 18th century.

Niki de Saint Phalle dies on May 21, 2002, at the age of 71 in La Jolla, California.

With work overseen by Niki's granddaughter, Bloum Cardenas, and her longtime assistants, her remaining projects are completed. The Grotto opens in March 2003, with mosaic decorations of glass, mirrors, and pebbles as well as a host of painted and sculpted figures. Queen Califia's Magical Circle is dedicated and opens to the public on October 26, 2003. This is her first American garden and the last major project realized by the artist.

The Niki Charitable Art Foundation, a non-profit organization, is established to promote and protect Niki's artistic legacy.

 
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