The 1,000 faces featured on the LED screens were selected from a diverse cross-section of Chicago community groups.
The water sequence is inspired by the traditional gargoyle fountains found in many European parks.
Each glass block tower is constructed from custom-made glass bricks supported by a structural steel frame.
The fountain's reflecting pool is roughly 1/4 inch deep, designed specifically to be safe for wading.
Artist Jaume Plensa chose to use video to represent the diversity of Chicago's population through individual expressions.
The water stream from the LED screens occurs at a programmed interval, creating a 'spitting' effect.
Crown Fountain is a public art installation and video sculpture located in Chicago's Millennium Park. Designed by Spanish artist Jaume Plensa, it consists of two 50-foot glass block towers facing each other across a shallow, black granite reflecting pool. The LED screens display rotating digital videos of 1,000 Chicago residents, periodically puckering their lips to release a stream of water through a nozzle. The fountain serves as an interactive water feature, allowing visitors to walk through the shallow pool and play in the water spray. The system recirculates water, which is filtered and treated on-site. The granite base and glass bricks were chosen to provide a durable, interactive surface that reflects the surrounding skyline. The fountain operates as a social gathering space, particularly popular with families and children during warm weather.
Stand in the center of the reflecting pool between the two towers to capture both screens and the skyline reflections.
Bring a towel and change of clothes if you plan on letting children play in the water.
Visit during the evening to see the LED screens at their highest visibility and contrast.
Check the ground surface before walking, as the granite pool floor can be slippery when wet.
Avoid expecting the fountain to 'spit' water during the winter months, as the water system is deactivated for freezing weather.
Water features typically operate from late spring through early autumn, weather permitting.
No formal dress code, but footwear is recommended; climbing on the glass towers is prohibited.
