Fountain Head

In 2014, CNN.com’s Travel page selected Seyed Alavi’s Fountain Head as one of the ‘top 15 fountains in THE WORLD’… right here in Walnut Creek! Everyone has something to say about our golden, fiberglass head, installed in 2012 — often people use it as a landmark — “meet me at the Head!”

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Artist Statement

Fountains have been gathering spots in communities since ancient times.

“In this piece I combine the concepts of water as a source of life, with the mythological connection of wisdom and the fontanel—the soft spot on a baby’s head. In Greek mythology, Athena, the Greek goddess of Wisdom, was born from the head of Zeus.

People often ask me why I create public art. The reason is I believe art has to be accessible. Everyone, regardless of age, education or culture, should be able to experience art. And that’s really the challenge an artist faces— regardless of the medium, or if it’s in a museum, the artist must create work that is accessible.”

—Seyed Alavi

About the Artist

Alavi is a conceptual artist based in Oakland. When he develops ideas for a public artwork, he considers the entire site, including historical and cultural contexts, to create a piece that is complex, profound, and playful. His public artworks range from flags and carpeting to road signs and metal sculpture.

Project Support

For this project, the City of Walnut Creek, Walnut Creek Downtown, Wells Fargo Bank and Mechanics Bank all came together to rejuvenate two aging fountains and add a visual twist to the downtown area.

Location: 1350 N. Main St, Walnut Creek, CA

Image Caption: Seyed Alavi, Fountain Head, 2012, fiberglass.