La Joute, Kinetic fountain in Quartier international, Montreal, Canada
La Joute is a fountain in Montreal's International District consisting of thirty bronze sculptural elements arranged around a central tower that depicts animals and mythological figures. The sculptures are organized to create a composition that combines natural forms with imaginary characters in a cohesive spatial arrangement.
The work was created between 1969 and 1974 and was relocated from its original location in Olympic Park to its current site in the International District in 2003. This move gave the sculpture a new role in the urban setting.
The installation reflects artistic principles that were important to creators working with spontaneous, intuitive methods, making it a notable example in Canadian public art.
The full fountain performance with water, mist, and fire can be seen from mid-May through mid-October, with shows every hour between 7 PM and 11 PM. Plan to stay for the entire sequence to experience the complete display.
The installation performs a 32-minute choreography where water jets create a dome shape before natural gas ignites to form rings of fire around the bronze sculptures. This combination of water and flames creates a striking visual display.
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