As best as I can understand from the Lakota People, "Paha Sapa" means "Holy Emerging Black Hills". Western anthropologist tend to leave off the "Holy & Emerging". I partly chose this name because the materials for this sculpture are from the Black Hills, including the cedar branches, the Paha Sapa limestone, the pine base and even the mortar which is derived from limestone. In addition, the fountain represents how caves, such as Jewel Cave, in the Black Hills are formed. The flowing water is the active force that dissolves minerals in the limestone that is then deposited in cavities in the Earth forming calcite stalactites, which are attached to the bottom of the sculpture.
The main reason that I chose this name for this living, dynamic sculpture is that it represents something that is just as sacred as a crucifix in a Roman Catholic Church. I believe that a "responsive, loving & creative force" permeates the Universe; some call it "God", others may call it "Great Spirit", but jargon aside, it is a force that is palatable in my life both guiding and sustaining me. When I revel in the beauty of this fountain and listen to its singing, cascading water, I feel in harmony with all that surrounds me and a peacefulness of heart.
May the Force be with you! :)
