David Sjostedt

California’s redistricting could have major implications for next year’s District 17 State Assembly (AD-17) race, potentially reshaping which local candidates have a shot at representing roughly half of San Francisco’s population over the next decade.&nbsp;

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California’s redistricting could have major implications for next year’s District 17 State Assembly (AD-17) race, potentially reshaping which local candidates have a shot at representing roughly half of San Francisco’s population over the next decade.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, the state’s redistricting commission released <a href="https://www.wedrawthelinesca.org/map_viewer">a new draft map</a> of AD-17 that turns what used to be the eastern half of San Francisco into a carve-out of eastern and western neighborhoods that eliminates Bayview and swaths of the Mission while adding the Presidio, Marina and Seacliff.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Wednesday, the state’s redistricting commission released <a href="https://www.wedrawthelinesca.org/map_viewer">a new draft map</a> of AD-17 that turns what used to be the eastern half of San Francisco into a carve-out of eastern and western neighborhoods that eliminates Bayview and swaths of the Mission while adding the Presidio, Marina and Seacliff.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-style-rounded"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Redistricting-LAYERED-map.png" alt="" class="wp-image-14750"/><figcaption>A visualization shows the difference between the current map and the proposed changes. Districts drawn using 2010 census data are outlined in green. The most recent draft from the California redistricting commission is in blue. </figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-style-rounded"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Redistricting-LAYERED-map.png" alt="" class="wp-image-14750"/><figcaption>A visualization shows the difference between the current map and the proposed changes. Districts drawn using 2010 census data are outlined in green. The most recent draft from the California redistricting commission is in blue. </figcaption></figure>

The draft map sparked rancor among some political observers, who charged that it could disenfranchise voters of color clustered in the southeastern part of the city. Jim Ross, a longtime political consultant, said that the changes could lead to more politically moderate candidates competing for the seat in the assembly primary next June.&nbsp;

The draft map sparked rancor among some political observers, who charged that it could disenfranchise voters of color clustered in the southeastern part of the city. Jim Ross, a longtime political consultant, said that the changes could lead to more politically moderate candidates competing for the seat in the assembly primary next June.&nbsp;

“In ideology, the candidates running for the race right now are not dramatically different,” Ross said. “It&#8217;s very possible that a candidate could run in the new district, but not run for the special [election] and be successful.”

“In ideology, the candidates running for the race right now are not dramatically different,” Ross said. “It's very possible that a candidate could run in the new district, but not run for the special [election] and be successful.”

“In ideology, the candidates running for the race right now are not dramatically different,” Ross said. “It&#8217;s very possible that a candidate could run in the new district, but not run for the special [election] and be successful.”

Currently, the four candidates for the AD-17 assembly seat include David Campos, who formerly represented District 9, which includes the Mission; District 6 Supervisor Matt Haney; entrepreneur and scientist Bilal Mahmood; and Thea Selby, a member of the City College Board of Trustees. The seat was vacated by David Chiu, who had served in the seat since 2014 and was recently <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall-gets-mostly-back-to-business-with-swearing-in-of-city-attorney-david-chiu/">sworn in as City Attorney</a>.

Currently, the four candidates for the AD-17 assembly seat include David Campos, who formerly represented District 9, which includes the Mission; District 6 Supervisor Matt Haney; entrepreneur and scientist Bilal Mahmood; and Thea Selby, a member of the City College Board of Trustees. The seat was vacated by David Chiu, who had served in the seat since 2014 and was recently <a href="https://sfstandard.com/city-hall-gets-mostly-back-to-business-with-swearing-in-of-city-attorney-david-chiu/">sworn in as City Attorney</a>.

Given the timing of the vacancy, candidates for the seat must navigate a sequence of elections that will include up to four races and a redistricting change that takes effect next year.

Given the timing of the vacancy, candidates for the seat must navigate a sequence of elections that will include up to four races and a redistricting change that takes effect next year.

Chiu’s vacancy spurred the process of two distinct elections for the seat: a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/special-election-to-replace-david-chiu-in-state-assembly-set-for-april-2022/">special election to replace Chiu</a>, followed by a regularly scheduled statewide primary that includes a contest for the same seat. A special primary election, which is scheduled for April 2022 with a primary in February, will use the current AD-17 map. A subsequent general election, scheduled for November 2022 with a primary in June, will use the new map. The redistricting commission plans to finalize the map on Dec. 27.&nbsp;

Chiu’s vacancy spurred the process of two distinct elections for the seat: a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/special-election-to-replace-david-chiu-in-state-assembly-set-for-april-2022/">special election to replace Chiu</a>, followed by a regularly scheduled statewide primary that includes a contest for the same seat. A special primary election, which is scheduled for April 2022 with a primary in February, will use the current AD-17 map. A subsequent general election, scheduled for November 2022 with a primary in June, will use the new map. The redistricting commission plans to finalize the map on Dec. 27.&nbsp;

Campos voiced concerns that the proposed changes to the assembly district would muffle voices of historically disenfranchised groups of voters.&nbsp;

Campos voiced concerns that the proposed changes to the assembly district would muffle voices of historically disenfranchised groups of voters.&nbsp;

“The visualizations really harm communities of color, and they raise a lot of concern about diluting the voting power of these communities,” Campos told Here/Say in an interview. “My hope is that this is so bad that this outcome won’t be accepted. Hopefully, more people will be weighing in to keep that from happening.”

“The visualizations really harm communities of color, and they raise a lot of concern about diluting the voting power of these communities,” Campos told Here/Say in an interview. “My hope is that this is so bad that this outcome won’t be accepted. Hopefully, more people will be weighing in to keep that from happening.”

The state’s redistricting commission redraws district lines every ten years based upon changes to the census. The process is subject to changes in district populations, as well as demographics and community characteristics, designed to give populations the ability to elect representatives of their choice.&nbsp;

The state’s redistricting commission redraws district lines every ten years based upon changes to the census. The process is subject to changes in district populations, as well as demographics and community characteristics, designed to give populations the ability to elect representatives of their choice.&nbsp;

Fredy Ceja, a spokesperson for the redistricting commission, stressed that while public opinion is an important barometer in adjusting the maps, commissioners must also account for how the entire state will shift as a result.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fredy Ceja, a spokesperson for the redistricting commission, stressed that while public opinion is an important barometer in adjusting the maps, commissioners must also account for how the entire state will shift as a result.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We have to come back and restructure certain parts of the state,” Ceja said. “But once you start editing one part of the state, it has a ripple effect to the other parts&#8230;It’s just a jigsaw puzzle that’s never ending.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We have to come back and restructure certain parts of the state,” Ceja said. “But once you start editing one part of the state, it has a ripple effect to the other parts...It’s just a jigsaw puzzle that’s never ending.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We have to come back and restructure certain parts of the state,” Ceja said. “But once you start editing one part of the state, it has a ripple effect to the other parts&#8230;It’s just a jigsaw puzzle that’s never ending.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

The commission allows for public input on the drafts until Dec. 27., and accepts comments either through an online form or by attending a <a href="https://www.wedrawthelinesca.org/meetings">public input meeting</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The commission allows for public input on the drafts until Dec. 27., and accepts comments either through an online form or by attending a <a href="https://www.wedrawthelinesca.org/meetings">public input meeting</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ross said he imagines that the district map will change before the comment period has expired, and that it could reshape what types of local candidates are most viable in AD-17 for the next decade. While it may not have much impact on the state’s overall political landscape, a changing AD-17 could open up new pathways for San Francisco politicians.&nbsp;

Ross said he imagines that the district map will change before the comment period has expired, and that it could reshape what types of local candidates are most viable in AD-17 for the next decade. While it may not have much impact on the state’s overall political landscape, a changing AD-17 could open up new pathways for San Francisco politicians.&nbsp;

“Based on that map, there’s a real path for a much more moderate candidate, but that’s by San Francisco’s standards,” Ross said. “The way it would impact the assembly wouldn’t be that different, but it would be a big difference for San Francisco politics.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Based on that map, there’s a real path for a much more moderate candidate, but that’s by San Francisco’s standards,” Ross said. “The way it would impact the assembly wouldn’t be that different, but it would be a big difference for San Francisco politics.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

California’s redistricting poised to shake up dynamics of AD-17 race

Meaghan Mitchell

The pandemic dealt a serious blow to the entire global economy. But here in San Francisco—home to an outsized number of tech companies with generous work-from-home policies—boarded-up storefronts, a hollowed-out hospitality industry, and decreased foot traffic in retail corridors are especially concerning for local businesses owners and city leaders. And the recent string of brazen and high-profile smash-and-grab burglaries haven’t exactly helped put anyone at ease.

The pandemic dealt a serious blow to the entire global economy. But here in San Francisco—home to an outsized number of tech companies with generous work-from-home policies—boarded-up storefronts, a hollowed-out hospitality industry, and decreased foot traffic in retail corridors are especially concerning for local businesses owners and city leaders. And the recent string of brazen and high-profile smash-and-grab burglaries haven’t exactly helped put anyone at ease.

Finding solutions to these issues won’t be easy. However, if the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CW4nkTOFewT/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link">annual lighting of the Castro Holiday Tree</a> is any indication, large glowing objects seem to cheer people up.

Finding solutions to these issues won’t be easy. However, if the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CW4nkTOFewT/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link">annual lighting of the Castro Holiday Tree</a> is any indication, large glowing objects seem to cheer people up.

In that spirit, a new creative collaboration between the Downtown SF Community Benefit District and audiovisual company A3 Visual Solutions aims to give visitors and locals a reason to return to (and perhaps spend a little money in) the Financial District—a neighborhood where many small businesses <a href="https://sfstandard.com/san-francisco-financial-district-merchants-long-recovery-ahead/">felt the sting of the pandemic especially acutely</a>.

In that spirit, a new creative collaboration between the Downtown SF Community Benefit District and audiovisual company A3 Visual Solutions aims to give visitors and locals a reason to return to (and perhaps spend a little money in) the Financial District—a neighborhood where many small businesses <a href="https://sfstandard.com/san-francisco-financial-district-merchants-long-recovery-ahead/">felt the sting of the pandemic especially acutely</a>.

“<a href="https://www.downtownsf.org/events/letsglowsf/">Let’s Glow SF</a>” illuminates the towering walls of our city’s urban canyons with a dazzling light show. Featuring the work of nine international and local artists—including muralist <a href="https://www.downtownsf.org/wp-content/uploads/Amandalynn-Bio.pdf">Amanda Lynn</a>, caricaturist <a href="https://www.downtownsf.org/wp-content/uploads/Erika-L.-Chan-Bio.pdf">Ericka L. Chan</a> and multimedia artist <a href="https://www.downtownsf.org/wp-content/uploads/Sophia-Lee-Bio.pdf">Sophia Lee</a>—Let’s Glow projects holiday-themed images, including ice castles, poinsettias, dancing polar bears, swirling instruments and rotating presents, on one of four skyscrapers downtown.

“<a href="https://www.downtownsf.org/events/letsglowsf/">Let’s Glow SF</a>” illuminates the towering walls of our city’s urban canyons with a dazzling light show. Featuring the work of nine international and local artists—including muralist <a href="https://www.downtownsf.org/wp-content/uploads/Amandalynn-Bio.pdf">Amanda Lynn</a>, caricaturist <a href="https://www.downtownsf.org/wp-content/uploads/Erika-L.-Chan-Bio.pdf">Ericka L. Chan</a> and multimedia artist <a href="https://www.downtownsf.org/wp-content/uploads/Sophia-Lee-Bio.pdf">Sophia Lee</a>—Let’s Glow projects holiday-themed images, including ice castles, poinsettias, dancing polar bears, swirling instruments and rotating presents, on one of four skyscrapers downtown.

A projection at One Bush Plaza in San Francisco a part of Lets Glow SF hosted by Downtown SF on December 9 2021| Elliott Alexander

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Elloitt_Lights-4.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-19232" width="670" height="447"/><figcaption>A projection at One Bush Plaza in San Francisco a part of Lets Glow SF hosted by Downtown SF on December 9 2021| Elliott Alexander</figcaption></figure>

Last week, Mayor London Breed and Supervisor Aaron Peskin helped kick off the event outside of One Bush Plaza. With the flick of a switch, the 19-story building was transformed into massive canvas for &#8220;Holiday Star,&#8221; a five-minute immersive light show by artist <a href="https://www.downtownsf.org/wp-content/uploads/Sean-Capone-Bio.pdf">Sean Capone</a>. It was accompanied by music from Nick Andre and Matthew Shaw.

Last week, Mayor London Breed and Supervisor Aaron Peskin helped kick off the event outside of One Bush Plaza. With the flick of a switch, the 19-story building was transformed into massive canvas for "Holiday Star," a five-minute immersive light show by artist <a href="https://www.downtownsf.org/wp-content/uploads/Sean-Capone-Bio.pdf">Sean Capone</a>. It was accompanied by music from Nick Andre and Matthew Shaw.

Last week, Mayor London Breed and Supervisor Aaron Peskin helped kick off the event outside of One Bush Plaza. With the flick of a switch, the 19-story building was transformed into massive canvas for &#8220;Holiday Star,&#8221; a five-minute immersive light show by artist <a href="https://www.downtownsf.org/wp-content/uploads/Sean-Capone-Bio.pdf">Sean Capone</a>. It was accompanied by music from Nick Andre and Matthew Shaw.

&#8220;Holiday Star&#8221; is just one of many works that will appear on the sides of One Bush Plaza, the Pacific Stock Exchange, 345 Montgomery Street, and the Hyatt Regency. The light exhibits run from 5:30 to 10 p.m. every night through Dec. 12.

"Holiday Star" is just one of many works that will appear on the sides of One Bush Plaza, the Pacific Stock Exchange, 345 Montgomery Street, and the Hyatt Regency. The light exhibits run from 5:30 to 10 p.m. every night through Dec. 12.

&#8220;Holiday Star&#8221; is just one of many works that will appear on the sides of One Bush Plaza, the Pacific Stock Exchange, 345 Montgomery Street, and the Hyatt Regency. The light exhibits run from 5:30 to 10 p.m. every night through Dec. 12.

In addition to Let’s Glow SF, a few other radiant displays of creativity are currently showing around the city. Read on to learn more.

In addition to Let’s Glow SF, a few other radiant displays of creativity are currently showing around the city. Read on to learn more.

<a href="https://sfrecpark.org/1586/Winter-Lights-in-Golden-Gate-Park">Winter Lights In Golden Gate Park</a>

<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-winter-lights-in-golden-gate-park"><a href="https://sfrecpark.org/1586/Winter-Lights-in-Golden-Gate-Park">Winter Lights In Golden Gate Park</a></h3>

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<h3 id="h-winter-lights-in-golden-gate-park"><a href="https://sfrecpark.org/1586/Winter-Lights-in-Golden-Gate-Park">Winter Lights In Golden Gate Park</a></h3>

After sundown through Feb. 2022 Golden Gate Park

After sundown through Feb. 2022 Golden Gate Park

A free holiday art crawl the whole family can enjoy. There is a little something for everyone. Start at McLaren Lodge to capture a glimpse of &#8220;Uncle John&#8217;s Tree,&#8221; which is adorned with hundreds of lights and accompanied by a charming holiday train display. Make your way through Peacock Meadow for the return of the &#8220;<a href="https://sanfranciscoparksalliance.org/entwined/">Entwined</a>&#8221; by artist Charles Gadeken, who has covered the trees with funky lights and filled the open space with abstract sculptures. After that, head to the Conservatory of Flowers for a psychedelic light experience inspired by the Summer of Love. And of course there&#8217;s the <a href="https://missionlocal.org/2021/03/ferris-wheel-skystar-golden-gate-park/">SkyStar Wheel</a>: In the spirit of the holidays, peace on Earth, and all that good stuff, we’ll just say that it offers spectacular views of the park and is real pretty at night.

A free holiday art crawl the whole family can enjoy. There is a little something for everyone. Start at McLaren Lodge to capture a glimpse of "Uncle John's Tree," which is adorned with hundreds of lights and accompanied by a charming holiday train display. Make your way through Peacock Meadow for the return of the "<a href="https://sanfranciscoparksalliance.org/entwined/">Entwined</a>" by artist Charles Gadeken, who has covered the trees with funky lights and filled the open space with abstract sculptures. After that, head to the Conservatory of Flowers for a psychedelic light experience inspired by the Summer of Love. And of course there's the <a href="https://missionlocal.org/2021/03/ferris-wheel-skystar-golden-gate-park/">SkyStar Wheel</a>: In the spirit of the holidays, peace on Earth, and all that good stuff, we’ll just say that it offers spectacular views of the park and is real pretty at night.

A free holiday art crawl the whole family can enjoy. There is a little something for everyone. Start at McLaren Lodge to capture a glimpse of &#8220;Uncle John&#8217;s Tree,&#8221; which is adorned with hundreds of lights and accompanied by a charming holiday train display. Make your way through Peacock Meadow for the return of the &#8220;<a href="https://sanfranciscoparksalliance.org/entwined/">Entwined</a>&#8221; by artist Charles Gadeken, who has covered the trees with funky lights and filled the open space with abstract sculptures. After that, head to the Conservatory of Flowers for a psychedelic light experience inspired by the Summer of Love. And of course there&#8217;s the <a href="https://missionlocal.org/2021/03/ferris-wheel-skystar-golden-gate-park/">SkyStar Wheel</a>: In the spirit of the holidays, peace on Earth, and all that good stuff, we’ll just say that it offers spectacular views of the park and is real pretty at night.

<a href="https://nocturne-x.com/?utm_source=google&amp;utm_campaign=general&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiAhreNBhAYEiwAFGGKPIMvbKC730N58m-lIENPIcrxKhUOTtZ8pbu-HEgXtSMOf6_r1rSw1xoCul4QAvD_BwE">Nocturne X</a>

<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nocturne-x"><a href="https://nocturne-x.com/?utm_source=google&amp;utm_campaign=general&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiAhreNBhAYEiwAFGGKPIMvbKC730N58m-lIENPIcrxKhUOTtZ8pbu-HEgXtSMOf6_r1rSw1xoCul4QAvD_BwE">Nocturne X</a></h3>

<h3 id="h-nocturne-x"><a href="https://nocturne-x.com/?utm_source=google&amp;utm_campaign=general&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiAhreNBhAYEiwAFGGKPIMvbKC730N58m-lIENPIcrxKhUOTtZ8pbu-HEgXtSMOf6_r1rSw1xoCul4QAvD_BwE">Nocturne X</a></h3>

Thu-Sun 12 p.m.-7 p.m., through Dec. 31 Gray Area, 2665 Mission St.

Thu-Sun 12 p.m.-7 p.m., through Dec. 31 Gray Area, 2665 Mission St.

Head to the Mission District and journey to another planet with Gray Area and Planet Numina Studio. Nocturne X is presented by a group of more than 100 Bay Area artists and creative technologists. Gray Area has activated all 10,000 square-foot of its space with hundreds of bioluminescent sculptures and interactive installations. 

Head to the Mission District and journey to another planet with Gray Area and Planet Numina Studio. Nocturne X is presented by a group of more than 100 Bay Area artists and creative technologists. Gray Area has activated all 10,000 square-foot of its space with hundreds of bioluminescent sculptures and interactive installations.

This experience takes visitors on a journey through the galactic ecosystem of planet Nocturne X, which is a 4,000-square-foot interactive forest with surprising stories and hidden puzzles. The team at Numina Studio made hundreds of hand-sculpted glowing plants that respond to touch, sound, and movement. Tickets are $15 for kids and $30 for adults.

This experience takes visitors on a journey through the galactic ecosystem of planet Nocturne X, which is a 4,000-square-foot interactive forest with surprising stories and hidden puzzles. The team at Numina Studio made hundreds of hand-sculpted glowing plants that respond to touch, sound, and movement. Tickets are $15 for kids and $30 for adults.

<a href="https://naked.co.jp/en/works/11869/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dandelion Project</a>

<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dandelion-project"><a href="https://naked.co.jp/en/works/11869/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dandelion Project</a></h3>

<h3 id="h-dandelion-project"><a href="https://naked.co.jp/en/works/11869/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dandelion Project</a></h3>

Fri-Sun, Noon to 7 p.m., through Jan. 21 Japan Center Mall, 1737 Post St.

Fri-Sun, Noon to 7 p.m., through Jan. 21 Japan Center Mall, 1737 Post St.

The Japantown Community Benefit District, world-renowned artist Ryotaro Muramatsu, and art curation company, NAKED Inc. collaborated to activate San Francisco&#8217;s historic Japantown with an interactive light exhibit that not only increased foot traffic in the historic neighborhood but also connected it to other cities around the world. Shanghai, China, Kyoto, Japan, and Paris, France are just a few examples.

The Japantown Community Benefit District, world-renowned artist Ryotaro Muramatsu, and art curation company, NAKED Inc. collaborated to activate San Francisco's historic Japantown with an interactive light exhibit that not only increased foot traffic in the historic neighborhood but also connected it to other cities around the world. Shanghai, China, Kyoto, Japan, and Paris, France are just a few examples.

The Japantown Community Benefit District, world-renowned artist Ryotaro Muramatsu, and art curation company, NAKED Inc. collaborated to activate San Francisco&#8217;s historic Japantown with an interactive light exhibit that not only increased foot traffic in the historic neighborhood but also connected it to other cities around the world. Shanghai, China, Kyoto, Japan, and Paris, France are just a few examples.

“We’ve had around a thousand people come and visit so far,” said Grace Horikiri, who is the executive director of&nbsp; Japantown’s CBD. Horikiri told us that the fundamental goal of the exhibit is to demonstrate support by sending a peace prayer around the globe in digital form. The visit features digital dandelions that visitors can interact with using their smartphones—“blowing” on the dandelion and sending its fluff (a symbol of peace) in real-time to other participating locations.

“We’ve had around a thousand people come and visit so far,” said Grace Horikiri, who is the executive director of&nbsp; Japantown’s CBD. Horikiri told us that the fundamental goal of the exhibit is to demonstrate support by sending a peace prayer around the globe in digital form. The visit features digital dandelions that visitors can interact with using their smartphones—“blowing” on the dandelion and sending its fluff (a symbol of peace) in real-time to other participating locations.

A festival of lights: ‘Let’s Glow SF’ and other lustrous displays illuminate the city

Christina Campodonico

San Francisco has one of the “largest and broadest” public art collections in America.

San Francisco has one of the “largest and broadest” public art collections in America.

That’s according to Allison Cummings, senior registrar for SF’s Civic Art Collection, who said the city’s holdings include “everything from the WPA murals at Coit Tower and Beach Chalet to the contemporary art installations at SFO.”

That’s according to Allison Cummings, senior registrar for SF’s Civic Art Collection, who said the city’s holdings include “everything from the WPA murals at Coit Tower and Beach Chalet to the contemporary art installations at SFO.”

Weighing in at around 4,000 pieces, the city’s <a href="https://kiosk.sfartscommission.org/index-tree/tree/45">Civic Art Collection</a> encompasses historic monuments, ceramics, photography, art festival purchases and <a href="https://kiosk.sfartscommission.org/objects-1/thumbnails?records=20&amp;query=Portfolios%20%3D%20%222%22&amp;sort=0">even jewelry</a>. About 20% of the artworks are tucked away in storage and <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2011/04/17/us/17bcart.html">the whereabouts of some are a bit of mystery</a>. But you can find others on city streets, inside city buildings and alongside the moving walkways at the airport.&nbsp;

Weighing in at around 4,000 pieces, the city’s <a href="https://kiosk.sfartscommission.org/index-tree/tree/45">Civic Art Collection</a> encompasses historic monuments, ceramics, photography, art festival purchases and <a href="https://kiosk.sfartscommission.org/objects-1/thumbnails?records=20&amp;query=Portfolios%20%3D%20%222%22&amp;sort=0">even jewelry</a>. About 20% of the artworks are tucked away in storage and <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2011/04/17/us/17bcart.html">the whereabouts of some are a bit of mystery</a>. But you can find others on city streets, inside city buildings and alongside the moving walkways at the airport.&nbsp;

“Public art is art that has a job to do,” Cummings said. “It&#8217;s artwork that beautifies civic space, that supports community.”

“Public art is art that has a job to do,” Cummings said. “It's artwork that beautifies civic space, that supports community.”

“Public art is art that has a job to do,” Cummings said. “It&#8217;s artwork that beautifies civic space, that supports community.”

We took a look at the city’s collection, sorting through the thousands of items in the catalog, so you don’t have to. Here are five pieces we found particularly interesting.

We took a look at the city’s collection, sorting through the thousands of items in the catalog, so you don’t have to. Here are five pieces we found particularly interesting.

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading" id="h-the-most-wtf-piece">The Most WTF Piece</h2>

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size" id="h-the-most-wtf-piece">The Most WTF Piece</h2>

Mikko Miller of Burlingame takes in the view of Vaillancourt Fountain as water flows from it at Justin Herman Plaza on Tuesday, August 15, 2017 in San Francisco, Calif. Miller was riding by during his commute and said he hasn't seen water flowing from it for a long time. | Lea Suzuki/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/5MostInterestingPublicArt_INLINED05-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-54252"/><figcaption>San Francisco&#8217;s Vaillancourt Fountain may be among the more quirky pieces in the city&#8217;s broad and large civic art collection. | Lea Suzuki/SF Chronicle via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/5MostInterestingPublicArt_INLINED05-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-54252"/><figcaption>San Francisco's Vaillancourt Fountain may be among the more quirky pieces in the city's broad and large civic art collection. | Lea Suzuki/SF Chronicle via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/5MostInterestingPublicArt_INLINED05-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-54252"/><figcaption>San Francisco&#8217;s Vaillancourt Fountain may be among the more quirky pieces in the city&#8217;s broad and large civic art collection. | Lea Suzuki/SF Chronicle via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

Love it or hate it, the Embaracadero’s Vaillancourt Fountain is definitely one of the more stop-you-in-your-tracks pieces in the city’s Civic Art Collection. It just might make you pause and wonder aloud: “What the f**k?”&nbsp;

Love it or hate it, the Embaracadero’s Vaillancourt Fountain is definitely one of the more stop-you-in-your-tracks pieces in the city’s Civic Art Collection. It just might make you pause and wonder aloud: “What the f**k?”&nbsp;

Designed by Quebecois artist Armand Vaillancourt, the (<a href="https://sf.curbed.com/2017/8/15/16151750/embarcadero-vaillancourt-fountain-sf-brutalist">sometimes</a>) water-spouting sculpture was originally conceived as an answer to the now long gone Embarcadero Freeway and has been eye-catching and controversial since its 1971 debut. The San Francisco Chronicle’s critic at the time likened the Brutalist artwork’s rectangular tubes to &#8220;<a href="https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/A-taste-of-Temko-his-take-on-6-S-F-buildings-3163489.php">technological excrescences &#8230; deposited by a giant concrete dog with square intestines</a>.&#8221; Ouch! Supervisor Aaron Peskin even proposed a resolution <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/SAN-FRANCISCO-Justin-Herman-Plaza-fountain-s-2807672.php">to demolish the fountain</a> back in 2004.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Designed by Quebecois artist Armand Vaillancourt, the (<a href="https://sf.curbed.com/2017/8/15/16151750/embarcadero-vaillancourt-fountain-sf-brutalist">sometimes</a>) water-spouting sculpture was originally conceived as an answer to the now long gone Embarcadero Freeway and has been eye-catching and controversial since its 1971 debut. The San Francisco Chronicle’s critic at the time likened the Brutalist artwork’s rectangular tubes to "<a href="https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/A-taste-of-Temko-his-take-on-6-S-F-buildings-3163489.php">technological excrescences ... deposited by a giant concrete dog with square intestines</a>." Ouch! Supervisor Aaron Peskin even proposed a resolution <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/SAN-FRANCISCO-Justin-Herman-Plaza-fountain-s-2807672.php">to demolish the fountain</a> back in 2004.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Designed by Quebecois artist Armand Vaillancourt, the (<a href="https://sf.curbed.com/2017/8/15/16151750/embarcadero-vaillancourt-fountain-sf-brutalist">sometimes</a>) water-spouting sculpture was originally conceived as an answer to the now long gone Embarcadero Freeway and has been eye-catching and controversial since its 1971 debut. The San Francisco Chronicle’s critic at the time likened the Brutalist artwork’s rectangular tubes to &#8220;<a href="https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/A-taste-of-Temko-his-take-on-6-S-F-buildings-3163489.php">technological excrescences &#8230; deposited by a giant concrete dog with square intestines</a>.&#8221; Ouch! Supervisor Aaron Peskin even proposed a resolution <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/SAN-FRANCISCO-Justin-Herman-Plaza-fountain-s-2807672.php">to demolish the fountain</a> back in 2004.&nbsp;&nbsp;

More recent reviews <a href="https://datebook.sfchronicle.com/art-exhibits/embarcaderos-vaillancourt-fountain-is-stark-brutal-and-ugly-and-thats-why-i-love-it">have been kinder</a> with The Chronicle’s Tony Bravo calling the artwork “gorgeously stark, wonderfully abstract… and fabulously eccentric.” Wherever you stand on the fountain’s artistic merits, it’s certainly a more quirky attribute of San Francisco’s urban landscape. It even <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xCaDOaUOFUY">made a cameo</a> in the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater video game franchise.&nbsp;

More recent reviews <a href="https://datebook.sfchronicle.com/art-exhibits/embarcaderos-vaillancourt-fountain-is-stark-brutal-and-ugly-and-thats-why-i-love-it">have been kinder</a> with The Chronicle’s Tony Bravo calling the artwork “gorgeously stark, wonderfully abstract… and fabulously eccentric.” Wherever you stand on the fountain’s artistic merits, it’s certainly a more quirky attribute of San Francisco’s urban landscape. It even <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xCaDOaUOFUY">made a cameo</a> in the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater video game franchise.&nbsp;

The Most Expensive Piece&nbsp;

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading">The Most Expensive Piece&nbsp;</h2>

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size">The Most Expensive Piece&nbsp;</h2>

Andrew Selbo, a San Francisco resident admires the wrapping murals on the ground floor of Coit Tower in San Francisco, Calif. on Tuesday, May 24, 2022 | Camille Cohen/The Standard

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/5MostInterestingPublicArt_FEATURED1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-54233"/><figcaption>Andrew Selbo, a San Francisco resident admires the wrapping murals on the ground floor of Coit Tower in San Francisco, Calif. on Tuesday, May 24, 2022. | Camille Cohen/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

The priciest piece in the city’s art collection is a bit difficult to pin down, but Coit Tower holds a treasure trove of top-dollar art, according to the San Francisco Arts Commission.&nbsp;

The priciest piece in the city’s art collection is a bit difficult to pin down, but Coit Tower holds a treasure trove of top-dollar art, according to the San Francisco Arts Commission.&nbsp;

“There are over 4,000 pieces in our civic art collection, many of which are priceless and difficult to fully appraise,” wrote Coma Te, the art commission’s Director of Communications, in an email. “The murals found in Coit Tower, painted by 27 artists, are estimated to be valued at $4.5 million.&#8221;

“There are over 4,000 pieces in our civic art collection, many of which are priceless and difficult to fully appraise,” wrote Coma Te, the art commission’s Director of Communications, in an email. “The murals found in Coit Tower, painted by 27 artists, are estimated to be valued at $4.5 million."

“There are over 4,000 pieces in our civic art collection, many of which are priceless and difficult to fully appraise,” wrote Coma Te, the art commission’s Director of Communications, in an email. “The murals found in Coit Tower, painted by 27 artists, are estimated to be valued at $4.5 million.&#8221;

Taken together, they form one of the “most expensive pieces in the collection,” Te confirmed.&nbsp;

Taken together, they form one of the “most expensive pieces in the collection,” Te confirmed.&nbsp;

Painted in 1934 by a group of artists employed by the Public Works of Art Project, a precursor to the Works Progress Administration or WPA, the paintings depict life in California and San Francisco during the Depression, <a href="https://sfrecpark.org/facilities/facility/details/Coit-Tower-290">according to the San Francisco Department of Recreation and Parks’ website</a>. Most of the painters were deeply influenced by the work of Mexican muralist Diego Rivera, who <a href="https://sfstandard.com/arts-culture/future-of-priceless-diego-rivera-mural-in-limbo-as-city-college-struggles-to-right-its-finances/">has a few prominent murals</a> scattered <a href="https://sfstandard.com/arts-culture/mellon-foundation-awards-200k-to-san-francisco-art-institute-for-iconic-diego-rivera-mural/">throughout the city</a>, and his social realist style, <a href="https://www.sftravel.com/article/restoration-coit-tower-murals-sf%E2%80%99s-monument-fresco">according to SF Travel</a>. Together the murals at Coit Tower comprise, “a monument to the use of the fresco technique in America,” <a href="https://www.sftravel.com/article/restoration-coit-tower-murals-sf%E2%80%99s-monument-fresco">wrote WPA-era art historian Dr. Francis O’Connor</a>.

Painted in 1934 by a group of artists employed by the Public Works of Art Project, a precursor to the Works Progress Administration or WPA, the paintings depict life in California and San Francisco during the Depression, <a href="https://sfrecpark.org/facilities/facility/details/Coit-Tower-290">according to the San Francisco Department of Recreation and Parks’ website</a>. Most of the painters were deeply influenced by the work of Mexican muralist Diego Rivera, who <a href="https://sfstandard.com/arts-culture/future-of-priceless-diego-rivera-mural-in-limbo-as-city-college-struggles-to-right-its-finances/">has a few prominent murals</a> scattered <a href="https://sfstandard.com/arts-culture/mellon-foundation-awards-200k-to-san-francisco-art-institute-for-iconic-diego-rivera-mural/">throughout the city</a>, and his social realist style, <a href="https://www.sftravel.com/article/restoration-coit-tower-murals-sf%E2%80%99s-monument-fresco">according to SF Travel</a>. Together the murals at Coit Tower comprise, “a monument to the use of the fresco technique in America,” <a href="https://www.sftravel.com/article/restoration-coit-tower-murals-sf%E2%80%99s-monument-fresco">wrote WPA-era art historian Dr. Francis O’Connor</a>.

The Oldest &amp; First&nbsp;

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading">The Oldest &amp; First&nbsp;</h2>

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size">The Oldest &amp; First&nbsp;</h2>

An over 200-year-old Buddha statue in Golden Gate Park’s Japanese Tea Garden holds the distinction of being the oldest object in the city’s art collection. Officially named “Amazarasti-no Hotoke” (“The Buddha that sits throughout the sunny and rainy weather without shelter”), it has seen many moons, sunrises and sunsets since about 1790. The statue was gifted to the city by luxury home decor retailer Gump’s in 1948, according to the arts commission.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

An over 200-year-old Buddha statue in Golden Gate Park’s Japanese Tea Garden holds the distinction of being the oldest object in the city’s art collection. Officially named “Amazarasti-no Hotoke” (“The Buddha that sits throughout the sunny and rainy weather without shelter”), it has seen many moons, sunrises and sunsets since about 1790. The statue was gifted to the city by luxury home decor retailer Gump’s in 1948, according to the arts commission.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES - 2013/03/28: Buddha at Japanese Tea Garden, Golden Gate Park.  The  large bronze Buddha at the Japanese Tea Garden was cast in Tajima, Japan for Taionji Temple then presented to the Japanese Tea Garden San Francisco in 1949The Japanese Tea Garden at Golden Gate park was originally part of the Pan Pacific Exposition.  One of the craftsmen of the Japanese village, Makoto Hagiwara, helped design the Japanese village, and later he became responsible for the majority of the Japanese Tea Garden.  Hagiwara and his family became residents of one of the buildings in the garden, living within Golden Gate Park at the time. (Photo by John S Lander/LightRocket via Getty Images)

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/5MostInterestingPublicArt_INLINED04-1667x2500.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-54236"/><figcaption>The large bronze Buddha statue at the Japanese Tea Garden was cast in Tajima, Japan for Taionji Temple, then presented to the Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco in 1949. Made around 1790, it is the oldest piece in the city&#8217;s art collection. | Photo by John S Lander/LightRocket via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/5MostInterestingPublicArt_INLINED04-1667x2500.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-54236"/><figcaption>The large bronze Buddha statue at the Japanese Tea Garden was cast in Tajima, Japan for Taionji Temple, then presented to the Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco in 1949. Made around 1790, it is the oldest piece in the city's art collection. | Photo by John S Lander/LightRocket via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/5MostInterestingPublicArt_INLINED04-1667x2500.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-54236"/><figcaption>The large bronze Buddha statue at the Japanese Tea Garden was cast in Tajima, Japan for Taionji Temple, then presented to the Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco in 1949. Made around 1790, it is the oldest piece in the city&#8217;s art collection. | Photo by John S Lander/LightRocket via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

But even though the Buddha statue is the oldest piece in the city’s collection, it wasn’t the first to be added. That distinction goes to Lotta’s Fountain, which famous Vaudeville performer, Lotta Crabtree, gifted to the city in 1875. Crabtree made a mint as a Gold Rush-era entertainer and, <a href="https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/lotta-s-fountain">according to Atlas Obscura</a>, used “some of the gold coin, gold nuggets and gold watches that gentlemen bestowed upon her” to buy the city she loved a fountain.&nbsp;

But even though the Buddha statue is the oldest piece in the city’s collection, it wasn’t the first to be added. That distinction goes to Lotta’s Fountain, which famous Vaudeville performer, Lotta Crabtree, gifted to the city in 1875. Crabtree made a mint as a Gold Rush-era entertainer and, <a href="https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/lotta-s-fountain">according to Atlas Obscura</a>, used “some of the gold coin, gold nuggets and gold watches that gentlemen bestowed upon her” to buy the city she loved a fountain.&nbsp;

San Francisco History Association board member Joseph Amster campaigns to commission a plaque about the 1906 quake next to the Lotta’s Fountain on Tuesday, August 23, 2016, in San Francisco, Calif.   The plaque would be at the Market St. side corner of the deYoung building at left. (Photo By Liz Hafalia/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images)

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/5MostInterestingPublicArt_INLINED03-1-2500x1724.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-54239"/><figcaption>Lotta&#8217;s Fountain, gifted to the city in 1875, holds the distinction of being the first piece in the city&#8217;s art collection. | Photo By Liz Hafalia/SF Chronicle via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/5MostInterestingPublicArt_INLINED03-1-2500x1724.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-54239"/><figcaption>Lotta's Fountain, gifted to the city in 1875, holds the distinction of being the first piece in the city's art collection. | Photo By Liz Hafalia/SF Chronicle via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/5MostInterestingPublicArt_INLINED03-1-2500x1724.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-54239"/><figcaption>Lotta&#8217;s Fountain, gifted to the city in 1875, holds the distinction of being the first piece in the city&#8217;s art collection. | Photo By Liz Hafalia/SF Chronicle via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

After San Francisco’s devastating 1906 earthquake, the fountain became a meeting point for survivors to reunite with loved ones. Since then, the fountain has become a site for remembrances of the earthquake, famous concerts and a fixture of countless San Franciscans’ commutes at the intersection of Kearny, Geary and Market streets.

After San Francisco’s devastating 1906 earthquake, the fountain became a meeting point for survivors to reunite with loved ones. Since then, the fountain has become a site for remembrances of the earthquake, famous concerts and a fixture of countless San Franciscans’ commutes at the intersection of Kearny, Geary and Market streets.

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading">The Newest&nbsp;</h2>

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size">The Newest&nbsp;</h2>

Bow by Walter Hood; 2022; Painted Steel, Glass, Wood and Alumnium. Description: Bow is a painted steel, aluminium, glass and wood sculpture shaped like the bow of a boat created by Walter Hood (Hood Design Studio). Courtesy Ethan Kaplan / Collection of the City &amp; County of San Francisco

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/5MostInterestingPublicArt_INLINED02-2500x1914.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-54242"/><figcaption>Bow (2022) is a painted steel, aluminum, glass and wood sculpture shaped like the bow of a boat created by Walter Hood (Hood Design Studio). | Courtesy Ethan Kaplan/ Collection of the City &amp; County of San Francisco</figcaption></figure>

This one is a bit of a tie. Landscape architect and MacArthur “Genius” Grant winner Walter Hood’s shiplike Bow and Cuban American artist Jorge Prado’s lollipop-like light sculpture Untitled were unveiled within a month of each other this year as part of two milestone public works projects.&nbsp;

This one is a bit of a tie. Landscape architect and MacArthur “Genius” Grant winner Walter Hood’s shiplike Bow and Cuban American artist Jorge Prado’s lollipop-like light sculpture Untitled were unveiled within a month of each other this year as part of two milestone public works projects.&nbsp;

Bow complemented the March 10 completion of the San Francisco Fire Department’s new floating fireboat station at Pier 22 ½, <a href="https://abc7news.com/floating-firehouse-san-francisco-fire-department-sffd-station-climate-change/11639026/#:~:text=It%20officially%20opened%20Thursday%20at,south%20of%20the%20Ferry%20Building.&amp;text=It%20sits%20behind%20Station%2035,according%20to%20the%20fire%20department.">the first of its kind in the Western Hemisphere</a>. The sculpture creates an observation platform for sweeping views of the Bay and Bay Bridge; its glass panels depict historic fireboat responses to the Loma Prieta Earthquake and 2020’s pier fire at Fisherman’s Wharf.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bow complemented the March 10 completion of the San Francisco Fire Department’s new floating fireboat station at Pier 22 ½, <a href="https://abc7news.com/floating-firehouse-san-francisco-fire-department-sffd-station-climate-change/11639026/#:~:text=It%20officially%20opened%20Thursday%20at,south%20of%20the%20Ferry%20Building.&amp;text=It%20sits%20behind%20Station%2035,according%20to%20the%20fire%20department.">the first of its kind in the Western Hemisphere</a>. The sculpture creates an observation platform for sweeping views of the Bay and Bay Bridge; its glass panels depict historic fireboat responses to the Loma Prieta Earthquake and 2020’s pier fire at Fisherman’s Wharf.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Untitled by Jorge Pardo; 2022; painted steel, fiberglass, acrylic, and LED light fixtures on Van Ness Avenue Geary Street Boarding Platforms. Courtesy Ethan Kaplan /Courtesy of the San Francisco Arts Commission

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/5MostInterestingPublicArt_INLINED01-2500x1728.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-54245"/><figcaption>Untitled by Jorge Pardo (2022) is comprised of painted steel, fiberglass, acrylic and LED light fixtures on the Van Ness Avenue Geary Street Boarding platforms. It was commissioned by the San Francisco Arts Commission for the California Department of Transportation/Caltrans. | Courtesy Ethan Kaplan/Courtesy of the San Francisco Arts Commission </figcaption></figure>

Prado’s Untitled brings a pop of whimsical light and color to the Geary Street Station of the Van Ness Bus Rapid Transit Project, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/transportation/no-joke-after-years-of-delay-van-ness-brt-opens-to-fanfare/">which finally opened April 1</a> after <a href="https://sfstandard.com/transportation/van-ness-brt-bus-rapid-transit-history-timeline/">more than two decades</a> of planning. Riding Muni may draw mixed opinions, but this sculpture undoubtedly makes the commutes of riders a little bit brighter.&nbsp;

Prado’s Untitled brings a pop of whimsical light and color to the Geary Street Station of the Van Ness Bus Rapid Transit Project, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/transportation/no-joke-after-years-of-delay-van-ness-brt-opens-to-fanfare/">which finally opened April 1</a> after <a href="https://sfstandard.com/transportation/van-ness-brt-bus-rapid-transit-history-timeline/">more than two decades</a> of planning. Riding Muni may draw mixed opinions, but this sculpture undoubtedly makes the commutes of riders a little bit brighter.&nbsp;

Best Reason to Get to SFO Early

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading">Best Reason to Get to SFO Early</h2>

<h2 class="has-medium-font-size">Best Reason to Get to SFO Early</h2>

Not missing your flight is one incentive for getting to San Francisco International Airport with plenty of time to spare. But if that’s not enough, SFO offers travelers many interesting pieces of eye candy to peruse while waiting for flight crews to finish whatever it is they’re always tinkering with underneath the plane.

Not missing your flight is one incentive for getting to San Francisco International Airport with plenty of time to spare. But if that’s not enough, SFO offers travelers many interesting pieces of eye candy to peruse while waiting for flight crews to finish whatever it is they’re always tinkering with underneath the plane.

There’s <a href="https://www.sfomuseum.org/public-art/public-collection/high-heels-going-heaven">a whimsical pair of high-heeled shoes</a> by the “princess of polka dots,” famed Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, in Terminal 1; <a href="https://www.sfomuseum.org/public-art/public-collection/red-cadmium-giant">a hanging star of contorted aluminum</a> by sculpture Mark Handforth on the departures level; inverted <a href="https://www.sfomuseum.org/public-art/public-collection/terra-techne">“tectonic plates” suspended from the ceiling</a> at one security checkpoint; even hanging lights inspired by <a href="https://www.sfomuseum.org/public-art/public-collection/color-horizons">the literary luminescence of San Francisco writer Rebecca Solnit</a>.

There’s <a href="https://www.sfomuseum.org/public-art/public-collection/high-heels-going-heaven">a whimsical pair of high-heeled shoes</a> by the “princess of polka dots,” famed Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, in Terminal 1; <a href="https://www.sfomuseum.org/public-art/public-collection/red-cadmium-giant">a hanging star of contorted aluminum</a> by sculpture Mark Handforth on the departures level; inverted <a href="https://www.sfomuseum.org/public-art/public-collection/terra-techne">“tectonic plates” suspended from the ceiling</a> at one security checkpoint; even hanging lights inspired by <a href="https://www.sfomuseum.org/public-art/public-collection/color-horizons">the literary luminescence of San Francisco writer Rebecca Solnit</a>.

“The art collection found at SFO has many notable Bay Area artists that welcome and bid bon voyage to countless travelers every day,” wrote Te.&nbsp;

“The art collection found at SFO has many notable Bay Area artists that welcome and bid bon voyage to countless travelers every day,” wrote Te.&nbsp;

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/timeturnlight2-2500x1673.jpg" alt="Interesting pieces and places to see or visit in San Francisco’s public art collection." class="wp-image-54260"/><figcaption>Woody De Othello&#8217;s&nbsp;Time, Turn, and Light, (2019) is located on Level 3 of the San Francisco International Airport&#8217;s International Terminal and was commissioned by the San Francisco Arts Commission for SFO. | Courtesy of the San Francisco Arts Commission</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/timeturnlight2-2500x1673.jpg" alt="Interesting pieces and places to see or visit in San Francisco’s public art collection." class="wp-image-54260"/><figcaption>Woody De Othello's&nbsp;Time, Turn, and Light, (2019) is located on Level 3 of the San Francisco International Airport's International Terminal and was commissioned by the San Francisco Arts Commission for SFO. | Courtesy of the San Francisco Arts Commission</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/timeturnlight2-2500x1673.jpg" alt="Interesting pieces and places to see or visit in San Francisco’s public art collection." class="wp-image-54260"/><figcaption>Woody De Othello&#8217;s&nbsp;Time, Turn, and Light, (2019) is located on Level 3 of the San Francisco International Airport&#8217;s International Terminal and was commissioned by the San Francisco Arts Commission for SFO. | Courtesy of the San Francisco Arts Commission</figcaption></figure>

But the most eye-catching artwork may be that of up-and-coming Oakland sculptor <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2022/03/17/t-magazine/woody-de-othello-art.html">Woody De Othello</a>. Titled Time, Turn and Light, the set of bronze sculptures depict sets of hands intertwining with clocks, a flashlight, a candle and a doorknob in a surreal, Dali-esque fashion. The artwork can be found on an outdoor terrace and observation deck in the International Terminal.&nbsp;

But the most eye-catching artwork may be that of up-and-coming Oakland sculptor <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2022/03/17/t-magazine/woody-de-othello-art.html">Woody De Othello</a>. Titled Time, Turn and Light, the set of bronze sculptures depict sets of hands intertwining with clocks, a flashlight, a candle and a doorknob in a surreal, Dali-esque fashion. The artwork can be found on an outdoor terrace and observation deck in the International Terminal.&nbsp;

Wondering where to find all these wonderful pieces? Check out our map:

Wondering where to find all these wonderful pieces? Check out our map:

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New, old, quirky, costly: Get familiar with SF’s Civic Art Collection

Sophie Bearman

Tens of thousands of San Francisco students returned to classrooms Monday, many for the first time in 518 days—or ever—as campuses reopened following more than a year of remote learning.

Tens of thousands of San Francisco students returned to classrooms Monday, many for the first time in 518 days—or ever—as campuses reopened following more than a year of remote learning.

At Dr. George Washington Carver Elementary School in the Bayview, San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) Superintendent Vincent Matthews greeted students and cheered the long-awaited reopening.

At Dr. George Washington Carver Elementary School in the Bayview, San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) Superintendent Vincent Matthews greeted students and cheered the long-awaited reopening.

“We know that the best place for students is in-person,” said Matthews. “We’re ecstatic to have them back.”

“We know that the best place for students is in-person,” said Matthews. “We’re ecstatic to have them back.”

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/20210816-DSC_4666-edited-scaled.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-8911"/><figcaption>Superintendent Vincent Matthews, school board president Gabriela Lopez and Supervisor Rafael Mandelman greet students as they arrive for their first day of school at Everett Middle School. | Photo by Sophie Bearman</figcaption></figure>

There was much excitement and some jitters Monday morning, as parents waved goodbye to their children and weighed safety concerns around the Delta variant and rising COVID-19 cases in the Bay Area.

There was much excitement and some jitters Monday morning, as parents waved goodbye to their children and weighed safety concerns around the Delta variant and rising COVID-19 cases in the Bay Area.

Anna Torres, a mother of two boys, lingered anxiously in Everett Middle School’s near-empty courtyard well after the morning bell had rung and staff and students—including her son—had disappeared into the school building.

Anna Torres, a mother of two boys, lingered anxiously in Everett Middle School’s near-empty courtyard well after the morning bell had rung and staff and students—including her son—had disappeared into the school building.

“The school says everything is safe and that he’ll be okay,” said Torres. “I really feel scared about it. But I think it’s good to stay at school because we need them back to normal life.”

“The school says everything is safe and that he’ll be okay,” said Torres. “I really feel scared about it. But I think it’s good to stay at school because we need them back to normal life.”

Anna Torres, a mother of two SFUSD children, said she’s a bit anxious about safety but overall glad her children are back in classrooms. | Photo by Sophie Bearman


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/20210816-DSC_4687-edited-scaled.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-8908"/><figcaption>Anna Torres, a mother of two SFUSD children, said she’s a bit anxious about safety but overall glad her children are back in classrooms. | Photo by Sophie Bearman</figcaption></figure>

Health and school district officials have <a href="https://sfstandard.com/five-full-days-masking-indoors-and-no-vaccine-requirement-for-teachers-what-school-will-look-like-this-fall/">reassured families</a> in the weeks leading up to reopening that a combination of vaccinations, indoor masking, ventilation and staying home when sick make in-person learning at full capacity feasible.

Health and school district officials have <a href="https://sfstandard.com/five-full-days-masking-indoors-and-no-vaccine-requirement-for-teachers-what-school-will-look-like-this-fall/">reassured families</a> in the weeks leading up to reopening that a combination of vaccinations, indoor masking, ventilation and staying home when sick make in-person learning at full capacity feasible.

Face coverings are required indoors for students and staff. All of the district’s roughly 10,000 employees <a href="https://sfstandard.com/sfusd-to-require-vaccinations-for-teachers-and-staff/">must be fully vaccinated</a> by Sept. 7 or submit to “at least once” weekly COVID-19 testing. SFUSD district spokeswoman Gentle Blythe told Here/Say on Monday that SFUSD “hasn’t finalized” its position on whether to strengthen the mandate by making vaccinations a condition of employment.

Face coverings are required indoors for students and staff. All of the district’s roughly 10,000 employees <a href="https://sfstandard.com/sfusd-to-require-vaccinations-for-teachers-and-staff/">must be fully vaccinated</a> by Sept. 7 or submit to “at least once” weekly COVID-19 testing. SFUSD district spokeswoman Gentle Blythe told Here/Say on Monday that SFUSD “hasn’t finalized” its position on whether to strengthen the mandate by making vaccinations a condition of employment.

Commissioner Jenny Lam said she supports requiring all staff be vaccinated—full stop.

Commissioner Jenny Lam said she supports requiring all staff be vaccinated—full stop.

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