Client: Burnsville Community Foundation

Overview

ASCENT FOUNTAIN is an exciting new addition to the dynamic design of Nicollet Commons Park. Located in front of the Ames Center for the Performing Arts, Ascent Fountain is an eighteen foot high sculpture that features three sculpted eagles cast in bronze that appear to soar through an elegantly designed stainless steel trellis. At the base of the fountain bronze fish circle through sprays of water that echo the rhythm of the water feature, and complete the symbolic representation of evolving fauna and the cycles of nature, depicted throughout Nicollet Commons Park watercourse.

Goals

Dedicated to the memory of Ken Slipka, the former President of the Burnsville Community Foundation. The Foundation describes Ascent Fountain as “ honoring service to the community in the way it speaks to the accomplishments of goals, as well as the motivation and mentoring of others. The soaring eagles symbolize the synergies that lift and encourage the aspirations of others.” The sculpture's vertical orientation compliments the Artist's other work in the park CENTRIFUGE, which is pure abstraction and functions as the source for the parks compelling water feature.

Process

The process involved a complicated engineering and fabrication process. The Artist partnered with Hadi Sajadi of Hadi and Structures to complete the design of this animated work. The artist worked closely with Commercial Aquatics to develop the water feature that would add sound and movement to the sculpture while addressing code requirements from the Minnesota Department of Health, creating a safe environment for children. The Artist coordinated with Ames Construction for the installation.