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SII (Water)

Designed by Walter Hood in collaboration with community partners

This sculpture, located beside Peralta Creek, takes its form from the Ohlone word for water, Sii, rendered in an intricate web of metal grids. The work honors Ohlone language and culture, which are actively reawakening after more than a century since the last fluent speakers lived.

Internationally recognized landscape architect and MacArthur “Genius” Fellow Walter Hood created this piece to connect language, land, and water. Positioned along the creek, the sculpture reflects the deep relationship between Ohlone people and the waterways of this region, while also speaking to broader themes of resilience and solidarity among communities who have experienced displacement and oppression.

The sculpture is designed to evolve through community participation. Over time, local weavers incorporate plant fibers and textiles into its structure, creating new patterns and colors that change every four to six months. Each weaving reflects the hands, stories, and cultural practices of those who contribute.

Ohlone culture bearers Corrina and Deja Gould advised on the project. Community weaving is coordinated by co-designer Sara Schreiber and project director Holly Alonso, in collaboration with traditional weaver Mey Yan Saechao and artist Khepera Lyons-Clark.

Visitors are invited to return often, as the sculpture continues to transform in an ongoing expression of language, culture, and community in motion.