Outdoor sculptures often leave a lasting impression, but some of the most iconic works were never meant to endure. Designed as temporary installations, these ephemeral artworks challenge traditional notions of permanence in public art. Among the most famous is Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s "The Gates" (2005), a saffron-colored pathway of fabric-draped gates that transformed New York’s Central Park for just 16 days. Similarly, Anish Kapoor’s "Sky Mirror" (2006) dazzled audiences in Rockefeller Center with its reflective surface before being relocated.

Another standout is Olafur Eliasson’s "Ice Watch" (2014), where massive glacial ice blocks were displayed in public squares to raise awareness about climate change—melting away within days. Meanwhile, Ai Weiwei’s "Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads" (2011) toured globally as a commentary on cultural heritage, never settling permanently.

These temporary sculptures prove that art’s impact isn’t measured by longevity but by the emotions and conversations they inspire. Though fleeting, their legacy endures in photographs, memories, and the cultural dialogue they ignited.