Charm stones and fishing hooks. Can you see them here at La Ballona Fountain? This artwork commemorates Ballona Creek. It also honors the region’s first people. These are the Gabrielinos, also known as the Tongva.
La Ballona Fountain is not just a fountain. It’s a celebration of Culver City’s history. The fountain combines natural elements with sculptures. This creates a refreshing mix of movement and mystery.
May Sun created this artwork. She is a Los Angeles artist. You may know her work at Union Station. It’s called Listening for the Trains to Come.
Look closely at the fountain’s design. Notice the six oversized charm stones. Can you spot the replica stainless steel fishing hooks? They are affixed to the fountain’s floor. These elements represent the Tongva’s connection to the land.
Etched into the stainless steel plates are historic photographs. These photos show Ballona Creek long ago. The plates are embedded in the brick spillways. These spillways use materials from the old City Hall.
The entire La Ballona Fountain installation looks like an archaeological site. It invites us to think about the past. We can imagine what life was like here.
The Gabrielinos lived here for thousands of years. Their village, Guashna, was near the creek’s mouth. Ballona Creek and the nearby wetlands were important to them. They were a source of food and resources.
Ballona Creek was a natural stream. It was full of life. Sycamores and willows lined its banks. The Tongva people thrived in this environment.
But things changed. Los Angeles grew. Ballona Creek was channelized. It became a concrete waterway. Much of its natural beauty was lost.
The charm stones represent spiritual connection. The fishing hooks symbolize sustenance. The old photographs show the creek’s transformation. La Ballona Fountain tells a story of change. It reminds us of what was lost.
The fountain is in the City Hall courtyard. Take a moment to appreciate this blend of art and history. La Ballona Fountain links the present to the past. It celebrates Culver City’s heritage. It also acknowledges the Tongva people. They were the original inhabitants of this land. Their story is etched in stone. It flows with the water. It echoes in the heart of Culver City.