Topographis

Artist Ann Chamberlain designed Topographis as a gateway to Val Vista Park. The rust-colored metal bridge entrance to the Val Vista Park at 7350 Johnson Drive, crosses over Arroyo Canal and bears curved ½-inch steel rods bent to convey flowing water and accentuate the shape of the environment. Topography is the study of the forms and features of land surfaces. Hikers use a topographic map to decern elevations and natural features. The Arroyo Canal offers water foliage as a backdrop to the earthen-colored bridge.  Look for water to barely flow in parched weather but briskly surge through the canal in a welcomed rainy season. 

Anne Chamberlain was both an artist and instructor. “Ann was a woman of great courage and commitment,” said her friend Whitney Chadwick, an art history professor at San Francisco State University, where Ms. Chamberlain received two graduate degrees and taught. “All of her work evolved from her belief that collaborative, community-based art, has the power to redefine public spaces and alter private lives.”

Walk to Ann’s four other artworks to see Skeletal Arch (the back entry arch), Pear Blossoms (blue tiles with Pear blossoms), Alviso Adobe Trellis (wooden framed trellis near the community garden), and Diseno (nearby children’s play area). All were installed in 2004.

Jan Coleman-Knight