Ferst Fountain and Sibley Sculpture

“Ferst Fountain,” which had been donated to the Garden by the M & H Foundation in honor of Helen Montag Ferst, was at the Atlanta Botanical Garden before the Sibley Sculpture was added under the waterfall. The Atlanta Botanical Garden’s former Executive Director, Ann Crammond, suggested seeking a grant to enhance the fountain with a ceramic facade. Due to the time required in the grant preparation and approval to support this effort, only one month was left to complete the design and produce the work. In 1980, the installation of Sibley’s Mural was completed.

Sibley’s friends suggested she make something for the Garden, considering the compatibility of her work with a garden setting and her penchant for water which was available in the ponds in the Garden. Sibley approached Ann Crammond with the idea. Once the grant was awarded by the Georgia Council for the Arts, the Bureau of Cultural Affairs, and the Atlanta Arts Festival, Sibley began the origination of the fountain motif. The result was a mural – described by Sibley as being similar to stained glass, using grout instead of lead. The finished product was a beautiful enhancement to the fountain.

Sibley believed there was a real need for people to be reminded of their basic connection to nature, to balance their stress – a must for survival under current living conditions. The design and the peaceful nature of the fountain reflect her theme.