Berkeley has ceased efforts to rebuild the Turtle Island Monument Fountain, originally designed by Indigenous artists, due to disagreements over project credit and an apology. The artists opposed attributing contributions to a non-Native artist made years later. Chief cultural affairs officer Jennifer Lovvorn indicated the demands from the artists are outside the city's staff's capabilities. Despite the impasse, Civic Arts Commission members urged a reconsideration of the project, highlighting its significance. The fountain has been inoperable since 1982, and its redesign was initially proposed to honor Indigenous Peoples in 1992.
The Turtle Island Monument Fountain was originally designed in 1992 to feature a bronze snapping turtle representing Native Peoples across the Americas, but plans have been abandoned due to conflicts over credit and respect.
Jennifer Lovvorn, the chief cultural affairs officer, noted an insurmountable gap between Berkeley and the Indigenous artists, suggesting their demands were beyond the city staff's authority.
Berkeley's Civic Arts Commission members expressed their commitment to resolving the issues concerning the Turtle Island Monument, emphasizing its importance and encouraging further discussions with the original artists.
Marlene Watson and Lee Sprague, the Indigenous artists behind the original design, continue to advocate for appropriate recognition and respect regarding their project commemorating Native Peoples.
Collection
[
|
...
]