City Decides to Remove Controversial Vaillancourt Fountain Art Piece
The San Francisco Arts Commission has voted to remove the controversial Vaillancourt Fountain from Embarcadero Plaza. This decision was made on Monday, with an 8 to 5 vote in favor of the disassembly of the structure. The fountain, which has suffered from neglect and is deemed unsafe, will be taken apart and stored for three years as part of a redevelopment plan for the Embarcadero area.
Details of the Decision
Eoanna Goodwin, project manager at the Recreation and Parks Department, presented the case for removal. She stated that the fountain has fallen into disrepair, presenting safety hazards to the public. The anticipated cost for dismantling the structure is approximately $4.4 million. This includes hiring a consultant for disassembly and subsequent storage of the pieces.
Opposition and Concerns
The Cultural Landscape Foundation, which advocates for the preservation of the fountain, has voiced strong opposition to the decision. Its president, Charles Birnbaum, criticized the commission for its prior neglect of the artwork, suggesting that the condition of the fountain could have improved with adequate maintenance.
In a statement, Birnbaum expressed concerns about the rationale behind the safety claims, arguing that the commission’s management of the fountain has been poor. Conversely, Recreation and Parks officials emphasize the urgent safety risks associated with the fountain, including vandalism, trespassing, and structural integrity issues. Tamara Aparton, a spokesperson for the department, outlined various hazards, including the presence of asbestos and lead.
Public Reaction
Historical and Cultural Significance
The Vaillancourt Fountain, completed in 1971, stands as a symbol of modernist art in San Francisco. It has been integral to the city’s skateboarding culture, featuring prominently in videos since the 1980s. The fountain notably appeared on the cover of Thrasher Magazine, showcasing its continued relevance in contemporary culture.
The Future of the Fountain
Phil Ginsburg, head of the Recreation and Parks Department, formally requested the fountain’s removal earlier this summer. He articulated that maintaining the structure incurs prohibitive costs and limits the potential for future civic space development. Despite this, Barrow sees an opportunity in the disassembly process. He believes it could lead to efforts aimed at properly reinforcing and restoring the fountain.
As the city moves forward with its plans, the fate of the Vaillancourt Fountain remains a poignant topic of discussion regarding urban development and cultural preservation in San Francisco.
