STATUES RETURN TO BUILDING ONE

Our Treasure Island neighbors at Bigge Crane and Rigging Co., who operate an equipment support and logistics facility in historic Hangar Two, supplied the expertise, equipment, and crew needed to move the statues safely. Click on the image above to see a short video of the installation on October 15.

Pacific Unity, the theme of the Golden Gate International Exposition on Treasure Island in 1939 and 1940, found its most eloquent expression in the fair’s Court of Pacifica. This popular attraction included The Fountain of Western Waters, a three-tiered fountain featuring twenty sculptures by local artists. Six of these were recently reinstalled in front of historic Treasure Island Building One.

Twelve small sculptures, including four featured in the installation, were arranged on the fountain’s tiers. These dynamic sculptures are youthful figures, designed to represent various cultures, in action: dancing, making music, and working.

Eight poised and dignified large sculptures, including a matched pair now flanking the front doors of Building One, stood in the plaza surrounding the fountain. They represent the primary geographic regions of the Pacific: North and South America, the South Pacific, and Asia.

Sixteen of the original sculptures survive as part of the Treasure Island Development Authority’s collection of historic assets.