Nov 11, 2003 - Where Is That?

Edda Hatte (93105) won yesterdays contest by correctly identifying the picture on the right as being taken on the West Campus of Santa Barbara City College.

The fountain, created by artist Aris Demetrios, was dedicated in December 2000. It is named after Eli Luria and Michael Towbes who donated $350,000 of the $425,000 required for its purchase and construction.

Think it's pretty? Well, during its construction, many people called it ugly and thought that it impeded the view. Many City College instructors and students thought it was a wasteful way to spend the school's money, when it could have gone toward teacher salaries, scholarships, or more parking.

The fountains artist said the fountain's three bronze pillars are intended to symbolize the mentoring relationship that stands at the core of intellectual life. But, like last semesters algebra notes, the fountain gets little attention today. Apparently the symbolism is lost on most who pass by.

Click the picture above to see the full-sized picture