Fountain Of Life: A Timeless Dialogue in Stone and Glass

Sculpture at Istanbul Airport Blends Heritage with Contemporary Artistry

Fountain Of Life stands as a testament to the enduring interplay between history and the present. Conceived by Derya Geylani Vurusan, this large-scale public artwork draws inspiration from the designer’s ongoing exploration of temporal themes in the Moment series. The installation’s narrative unfolds through the juxtaposition of traditional travertine stone—symbolizing the past—and fluid glass splashes that capture the fleeting present, frozen in a moment of artistic brilliance.

Located within the bustling environment of Istanbul Airport’s Kaimakk Restaurant, the sculpture invites travelers to pause and reflect. The stone fountain forms a solid, historical base, while the glass elements, shaped to appear as if erupting from the fountain, evoke a sense of movement and immediacy. This contrast not only highlights the technical mastery required to merge such disparate materials but also underscores the symbolic passage of time.

The realization of Fountain Of Life demanded both traditional craftsmanship and innovative technology. The travertine was meticulously hand-carved, chosen for its rich texture and historical resonance. In contrast, the glass splashes were crafted using advanced hot glassblowing techniques, requiring precise control to achieve their fluid, dynamic forms. The integration of these materials presented significant challenges, particularly in maintaining structural integrity while conveying a sense of effortless motion.

Interaction with the artwork is primarily visual, as shifting light plays across the semi-transparent glass and polished stone, creating ever-changing reflections. This sensory experience encourages viewers to contemplate the relationship between permanence and transience, inviting personal interpretations of time’s passage. The installation’s ability to evoke emotion and thought has been recognized with a Silver A' Design Award, celebrating its technical excellence and artistic innovation.

The research underpinning Fountain Of Life delves into the symbolic power of materiality, exploring how heritage and innovation can coexist within a single form. By blending the enduring qualities of stone with the transformative nature of glass, the artwork offers a powerful narrative that resonates within contemporary art and architectural spaces. Derya Geylani Vurusan’s creation stands as a dynamic landmark, inspiring reflection and wonder in all who encounter it.

Fountain Of Life not only enriches its immediate environment but also sets a benchmark for integrating art, design, and technology in public spaces. Its success demonstrates the potential for meaningful dialogue between past and present, encouraging future explorations at the intersection of tradition and innovation.