“Ever seen a winter fountain that glows?” I ask. These aren’t your typical water features. Welcome to the Winter Fountains a breathtaking spectacle on Philadelphia’s Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Jennifer Steinkamp’s masterpiece transformed the Parkway for several months. Four giant fiberglass domes each 13 feet high and 26 feet wide appeared like magical beacons. They were more than just pretty lights though.
Each dome pulsed with eight different animated video projections. Think swirling colours cool greens blues warm reds pinks and yellows. The imagery depicted electricity a nod to Benjamin Franklin’s iconic experiments. The animations were dreamlike phantasmagoric evoking both art and science. It was a celebration of scientific inquiry.
These weren’t just simple projections. Steinkamp’s animations were incredibly detailed. Tiny particles collided like lightning bolts. Water seemed to combust into steam. Asteroid-shaped particles zoomed across the screen. Even hand-drawn Pennsylvania wildflowers bloomed in these digital worlds. The detail is astounding.
The domes weren’t just for night viewing either. During the day they shimmered. Their surfaces were embedded with glitter. They truly captured the spirit of water and light.
The Winter Fountains weren’t just randomly placed. They formed a constellation along the Parkway. Locations included Aviator Park near the Franklin Institute the Rodin Museum Park Towne Place and the Spring Garden Triangle. They created a mile-long illuminated pathway.
This extraordinary exhibition was a collaborative effort. The Parkway Council presented it. The Association for Public Art commissioned it. The William Penn Foundation provided major support. Many other organizations and individuals contributed to this stunning display. The result a captivating display of art and technology a fitting tribute to Philadelphia’s history and spirit. Who knew electricity could be so beautiful?