Vaillancourt Fountain, Modernist fountain at Embarcadero Plaza, San Francisco, United States
The Vaillancourt Fountain is a large water sculpture made of stacked concrete forms that direct water through openings and channels. The design creates flowing patterns that shift constantly as water moves across and through the interconnected concrete sections.
The work was completed in 1971 as part of the Embarcadero Plaza development. It was designed as a response to the urban infrastructure of that era, particularly the elevated freeway structure that once dominated the waterfront area.
The fountain bears the name of its creator, Canadian artist Armand Vaillancourt, reflecting his vision for public spaces. Visitors see raw concrete surfaces that intentionally evoke industrial forms, standing apart from the polished office towers nearby.
The fountain sits at Embarcadero Plaza near the Ferry Building, with plenty of benches and gathering space nearby. Visitors can access the area freely during the day and view the sculpture from multiple angles.
In 1987, the fountain became the site of an unexpected moment when the U2 frontman left a message on its surface, an incident that briefly captured public attention. This occurrence became part of the location's story in local memory.
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