​ The River Wall

The River Wall is a large-scale relief sculpture that reflects the spirit of the Sacramento River and its ever-shifting currents. Designed to engage visitors in a deeper appreciation of water and place, the installation blends visual artistry with text-based elements sourced from local, national, and international voices.

A central theme of the piece is the river’s bidirectional flow, shaped by the push and pull of tides. This natural phenomenon is symbolically captured in the mirrored typography of the word “River”, which can be read both forwards and backwards—echoing the rhythm of the water itself as it travels from the Sierra Nevada to the Delta.

Internationally acclaimed artist Paul Kos, based in Northern California, was commissioned to create the work. Known for his sculptural walls and public art installations throughout the Bay Area, Sacramento, and beyond, Kos brings decades of creative experience to this project. His work is held in major museum collections and has been featured in prominent exhibitions across the U.S. and Europe.

The River Wall serves as both a work of art and a contemplative space—encouraging viewers to reflect on their relationship to water, the land, and the flow of time.​