By Bryan Had
The Qubein Arena Panther Fountain project at High Point University was a remarkable endeavor undertaken by Fountain People. The exterior circular tiered fountain features a 6-m (20-ft) bronze sculpture of a panther. The fountain boasts cascading water from upper to lower basins, with carefully selected light-emitting diode (LED) lights illuminating the spectacle.
Project overview
The Qubein Arena Panther Fountain is an exterior circular tiered fountain located in front of the Qubein Arena and Conference Center at High Point University in North Carolina. The project was part of a larger $170 million development that includes the arena, conference centre, and hotel. The university sought to create an inspiring and engaging artwork that resonates with fans, students, and visitors, while aligning with the university’s values.
The design and creation of the Panther Fountain were led by Brian Keith, an artist specializing in fine art sculptures. Brian Keith Fine Art collaborated closely with the client to ensure that the design met their requirements and preferences. LKC Engineering, represented by Robert Hayter and Lou Sadler, provided engineering expertise and worked on the detailed design aspects of the project, including two additional fountains that flank the larger panther fountain.
The fountain’s construction, architectural finishes, management, and mounting of the sculpture, was the responsibility of the general contractor, Smith & Jennings, Inc. Smith & Jennings is a full-service grading company founded in 1947. The fountain installation was carried out by Pfists Inc., a company based in Douglasville, Ga., with expertise in fountain installations. Pfists has also worked on numerous other fountains within the High Point University campus.
