Inspired by the abandoned state of the fountain, its hidden position in a semi-enclosed courtyard, and the layered history that reflects the passage of time.
This video installation is projected onto the fountain located in the courtyard at Pratt Institute. Once a central hub for social gatherings, the fountain used to be surrounded by colorful lights, music, and dancing—serving as a lively meeting place for students. However, with the construction of a modern, convenient, and well-equipped student center, the fountain gradually lost its function and presence. Water stopped flowing, and its location—tucked between two buildings—made it easy to overlook. Over time, the structure fell into disrepair, cracks appeared, and during construction, it was even surrounded by building materials and left unnoticed.
The students are all sketching.
The Pratt family purchased this fountain in 1900 from Duveen Brothers, a prominent art dealer firm. The date of creation is unclear, but is mostly in the 1600s, and is said to have been outside of a villa in Milan. It was originally a well-curb. The fountain is in the Main Building courtyard.
The fountain in the Main Building Courtyard, showing a tent covering the courtyard with lights hanging and plants decorating the fountain for an event. Inscribed on reverse: 'April Showers' stamped on reverse: 'Chas. Spero. Photographer, 5 Dekalb Avenue, Brooklyn, N.Y.'