Vaillancourt Fountain: San Francisco's Beloved yet Maligned Skateboarding Landmark Faces Destruction
The Vaillancourt Fountain, a 96-year-old sculpture in San Francisco, is facing destruction, sparking debate among its supporters who consider it an important city symbol and a former skateboarding mecca.
Image credit: The New York Times
Introduction to Vaillancourt Fountain
The Vaillancourt Fountain, located in San Francisco, has been a subject of debate for its unique design, with many describing it as 'weird,' 'odd,' or 'bizarre.' Despite no longer being a working fountain or a popular spot for skateboarding, it remains an important symbol of the city for many of its supporters.
History and Significance
Created by French-Canadian artist Armand Vaillancourt in 1971, the fountain was initially met with criticism but has since become a beloved landmark. Its significance extends beyond its aesthetic value, as it has played a role in the city's skateboarding culture. Many skaters have fond memories of performing tricks and stunts at the fountain, which was once a thriving spot for the skateboarding community.
The Debate Over Destruction
The City of San Francisco has proposed destroying the fountain, citing its current state of disrepair and the fact that it is no longer functional. However, supporters of the fountain argue that it is an important part of the city's history and cultural identity. They believe that the fountain should be preserved and restored, rather than destroyed.
Conclusion and Support
As the fate of the Vaillancourt Fountain hangs in the balance, its supporters remain hopeful that it will be spared from destruction. We wish the people of San Francisco and the supporters of the fountain a speedy resolution to this debate, and hope that this beloved landmark will continue to be a source of inspiration and pride for the community.