February 1, 2006
The surface of this fountain is as flat as a lake. The water runs off the edges and gathers under a small ledge that makes the perimeter of the fountain. This waterfall effect of draining the water seems to me as a symbol of the natural waterfalls, lakes, and rivers scattered through out Oregon. After studying this piece I see how it reflects the natural beauty in Oregon, even though it is a man-made monument.
The metal sculpture of the salmon in the center of the fountain is, to me, the greatest symbol of Oregon. The salmon by itself represents an aspect of Oregon life, but when grouped together with many other salmon, it gives this idea of unity. This is appropriate considering the fountain becomes the centerpiece of the Saturday Market, which draws in people from all ends of Eugene. I also find it mildly ironic that the metaphor of a salmon swimming upstream can so closely describe the traffic in the same area at certain parts of the day.
Since there are no big building, or any large trees for that matter, right next to the salmon fountain, it really stands out. You hear it before you see it and the sound draws you towards it, like when you hear a waterfall and want to know where the sound is coming from. The ledge gives a shadow effect under the fountain which makes it appear to be floating. It is a noticeable monument that you cannot ignore even if you tried. In the courtyard surrounding the fountain there and benches that invite anyone passing by to sit and just stair as this fountain. The constant movement of water can be quite mesmerizing and really draws in the attention of anyone passing by.
The flat surface of the fountain mimics the surrounding area. Though there are some hills in Eugene, this monument is surrounded by flat land. Looking at this monument horizontally it blends in perfecting with the street behind it and looks natural in its surrounding. Because the foundation of the fountain is made out of concrete and the ground surrounding it is also made of concrete, the fountain gives this image of it having just risen up from the ground rather than giving the impression that someone spent a considerable amount of time creating it. It seamlessly blends in.
I find this piece of art to be an amazing success. So much imagery and symbolism can be found that makes the fountain a perfect representation of Oregon. The sound of falling water attracts people to it and the constant movement of water keeps the viewer interested and, sometimes, completely mesmerized. It blends with its surroundings, making it look completely natural in this environment. It is placed in an area that any person has access to and so it is a widely viewed piece.
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