11fountains Franeker
In Franeker, water flows down over dark pearls. From top to bottom, from bowl to basin. Silver and gold shimmer between the forms. This artwork is called the Oort Cloud (De Oortwolk), the 11fountains artwork in Franeker.
The fountain was created by French artist Jean-Michel Othoniel. He was inspired by Franeker astronomer Jan Hendrik Oort. Oort's idea of a cloud filled with comet-like objects surrounding our solar system forms the basis of the design. In Franeker, this comes together through water, light and movement.
The Oort Cloud
Water flows down over dark forms. Pearls appear to link together, interspersed with silver and gold accents. The fountain in Franeker represents the Oort Cloud (De Oortwolk), a concept from astronomy made tangible here.
The forms refer to the theory of Jan Hendrik Oort, who was born in Franeker. A cloud of objects surrounding our solar system, brought to life through water and movement. Fine droplets fall like a light mist. The artwork is constantly in motion, just like the universe on which it is based.
📍 Breedeplaats, Franeker
The Oort Cloud | Franeker - nearby
Starting point - for your city trip
In Franeker, you come across the fountain as you stroll through the city. Between the streets and canals, the water artwork suddenly appears. Along your route past the 11fountains, this is one of those places where you are happy to pause for a while.
You look up and follow the water as it flows over the forms. Droplets, movement and light. You watch for a moment, then look again, discovering more each time.
More inspiration
-
There are 10 more to explore!
See allCurious about the other fountains? Discover ten more fountains and the unique cities they call home.
-
Discover Franeker
Explore FranekerExplore the university town of Franeker and discover its hidden gems and highlights.
-
Public art
Read moreAlong the Frisian Wadden coast, art and landscape come together. Sense of Place brings ideas to the clay, the dike and the villages. Large-scale artworks. Rugged landscapes.
The 11fountains artwork in Franeker is called the Oort Cloud (De Oortwolk). It features cascading water and sculptural forms that refer to the universe and astronomy.
The fountain was designed by French artist Jean-Michel Othoniel.
The fountain is located on Breedeplaats in Franeker and is part of the 11fountains route through the city.
The fountain is a tribute to astronomer Jan Hendrik Oort and his theory of a cloud of objects surrounding our solar system.
The pearls reflect the artist's distinctive style and symbolise elements of space and the universe.
Yes, the fountain in Franeker is part of 11fountains, an art project featuring eleven fountains across the eleven Frisian cities.