Jillian D’Onfro

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<em>This is Trade Secrets, a series from The Standard that features unusual or unsung jobs around the city. Have a tip or suggestion? Email reporter Jillian D’Onfro at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jdonfro@sfstandard.com">jdonfro@sfstandard.com</a>.</em>

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<p><em>This is Trade Secrets, a series from The Standard that features unusual or unsung jobs around the city. Have a tip or suggestion? Email reporter Jillian D’Onfro at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jdonfro@sfstandard.com">jdonfro@sfstandard.com</a>.</em></p>

Paulina Goff spends October sleep deprived. While most of the year she works as a paralegal, she transforms into a <a href="https://www.crvdfx.com/">full-time professional pumpkin carver</a> every fall, filling her days and nights sculpting gourds for the likes of professional sports teams and Silicon Valley’s biggest tech firms.&nbsp;

<p>Paulina Goff spends October sleep deprived. While most of the year she works as a paralegal, she transforms into a <a href="https://www.crvdfx.com/">full-time professional pumpkin carver</a> every fall, filling her days and nights sculpting gourds for the likes of professional sports teams and Silicon Valley’s biggest tech firms.&nbsp;</p>

We’re not talking about the usual triangle-eyed jack-o-lanterns or simple silhouettes. Rather, Goff pares and shapes pumpkins into <a href="https://www.instagram.com/carvedfx">elaborate 3D figures</a>. And the onslaught of Halloween festivities keeps her incredibly busy.&nbsp;

<p>We’re not talking about the usual triangle-eyed jack-o-lanterns or simple silhouettes. Rather, Goff pares and shapes pumpkins into <a href="https://www.instagram.com/carvedfx">elaborate 3D figures</a>. And the onslaught of Halloween festivities keeps her incredibly busy.&nbsp;</p>

“I’ll be carving at an event, and then I get home and I&#8217;m carving custom orders and prepping for the next event,” she said. “And that’s literally what the whole month looks like.”&nbsp;

<p>“I’ll be carving at an event, and then I get home and I'm carving custom orders and prepping for the next event,” she said. “And that’s literally what the whole month looks like.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I’ll be carving at an event, and then I get home and I&#8217;m carving custom orders and prepping for the next event,” she said. “And that’s literally what the whole month looks like.”&nbsp;</p>

The San Jose artist first realized she could make money from carving as a broke 18-year-old looking on Craigslist for ways to earn extra cash. She spotted a listing for a live pumpkin carver for a CEO’s private Halloween party, submitted her art portfolio, and got the gig. As she converted that 600-pound pumpkin into a funnel web spider, it dawned on her that she could turn her talents into an actual business.&nbsp;

<p>The San Jose artist first realized she could make money from carving as a broke 18-year-old looking on Craigslist for ways to earn extra cash. She spotted a listing for a live pumpkin carver for a CEO’s private Halloween party, submitted her art portfolio, and got the gig. As she converted that 600-pound pumpkin into a funnel web spider, it dawned on her that she could turn her talents into an actual business.&nbsp;</p>

Since then, Goff has spent the past 13 years developing her craft and roster of clients, whether she’s working with brands to create custom pieces with their logo, live carving at a party or public event, or teaching pumpkin-sculpting workshops.

<p>Since then, Goff has spent the past 13 years developing her craft and roster of clients, whether she’s working with brands to create custom pieces with their logo, live carving at a party or public event, or teaching pumpkin-sculpting workshops.</p>

When she tells people she carves pumpkins professionally, the first reaction she usually gets is: “That’s a thing!?”

<p>When she tells people she carves pumpkins professionally, the first reaction she usually gets is: “That’s a thing!?”</p>

Professional pumpkin carver Paulina Goff stands behind a sculpted frog on a mushroom pumpkin at the Ferry Building on Sunday, Oct. 27, 2024, in San Francisco.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20241029-professionalpumpkincarver-008.jpg?w=2500" alt="A person leans on a large intricately carved pumpkin featuring a detailed frog and mushroom design, surrounded by pumpkin shavings and smaller carved mushrooms." class="wp-image-325782"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Goff created her mini mushrooms out of butternut squash and pumpkin tops ahead of her live carving session on Sunday. </figcaption></figure>


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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20241029-professionalpumpkincarver-008.jpg?w=2500" alt="A person leans on a large intricately carved pumpkin featuring a detailed frog and mushroom design, surrounded by pumpkin shavings and smaller carved mushrooms." class="wp-image-325782"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Goff created her mini mushrooms out of butternut squash and pumpkin tops ahead of her live carving session on Sunday. </figcaption></figure>

“People don’t know that it exists as a job, but there’s a whole community,” she said.&nbsp;

<p>“People don’t know that it exists as a job, but there’s a whole community,” she said.&nbsp;</p>

Goff has worked with the S.F. Giants, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., and Jägermeister, as well as with tech firms like Apple, LinkedIn, and Yahoo. She’s appeared on the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DARJ1XQStDL/?locale=Online%2Bentertainment%2C%2Breal%2Bperson%2C%2Belectronic%2Bchess%2Band%2Bcards%2C%2Blottery%2C%2Bsports%2C%2Bcomprehensive%2Breputation%2B(Telegram%3A%2B%40UUjd888888).nrbc&amp;hl=en">Food Network’s Road to Halloween Wars</a>, carving a <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DAY3exQy2Z3/?locale=Online%2Bentertainment%2C%2Breal%2Bperson%2C%2Belectronic%2Bchess%2Band%2Bcards%2C%2Blottery%2C%2Bsports%2C%2Bcomprehensive%2Breputation%2B(Telegram%3A%2B%40UUjd888888).nrbc&amp;hl=en">raven eating a severed hand</a>, and worked at extravagant private parties and community gatherings.&nbsp;

<p>Goff has worked with the S.F. Giants, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., and Jägermeister, as well as with tech firms like Apple, LinkedIn, and Yahoo. She’s appeared on the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DARJ1XQStDL/?locale=Online%2Bentertainment%2C%2Breal%2Bperson%2C%2Belectronic%2Bchess%2Band%2Bcards%2C%2Blottery%2C%2Bsports%2C%2Bcomprehensive%2Breputation%2B(Telegram%3A%2B%40UUjd888888).nrbc&amp;hl=en">Food Network’s Road to Halloween Wars</a>, carving a <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DAY3exQy2Z3/?locale=Online%2Bentertainment%2C%2Breal%2Bperson%2C%2Belectronic%2Bchess%2Band%2Bcards%2C%2Blottery%2C%2Bsports%2C%2Bcomprehensive%2Breputation%2B(Telegram%3A%2B%40UUjd888888).nrbc&amp;hl=en">raven eating a severed hand</a>, and worked at extravagant private parties and community gatherings.&nbsp;</p>

Recently, she created a <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DA1MLNryTLS/?locale=Online%2Bentertainment%2C%2Breal%2Bperson%2C%2Belectronic%2Bchess%2Band%2Bcards%2C%2Blottery%2C%2Bsports%2C%2Bcomprehensive%2Breputation%2B(Telegram%3A%2B%40UUjd888888).nrbc&amp;hl=en">gravity-defying sculpture</a> for a winery, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DBHRij7yQ1n/?locale=Online%2Bentertainment%2C%2Breal%2Bperson%2C%2Belectronic%2Bchess%2Band%2Bcards%2C%2Blottery%2C%2Bsports%2C%2Bcomprehensive%2Breputation%2B(Telegram%3A%2B%40UUjd888888).nrbc&amp;hl=en">a sinister scarecrow</a> at the Winchester Mystery House, and various wildlife over seven nights of live carving at <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/06/bay-area-filoli-garden-xi-biden-meeting/">Filoli’s historic estate</a>.&nbsp;

Joe Biden and Xi Jinping’s APEC visit becomes a selling point at this Bay Area garden

<p>Recently, she created a <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DA1MLNryTLS/?locale=Online%2Bentertainment%2C%2Breal%2Bperson%2C%2Belectronic%2Bchess%2Band%2Bcards%2C%2Blottery%2C%2Bsports%2C%2Bcomprehensive%2Breputation%2B(Telegram%3A%2B%40UUjd888888).nrbc&amp;hl=en">gravity-defying sculpture</a> for a winery, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DBHRij7yQ1n/?locale=Online%2Bentertainment%2C%2Breal%2Bperson%2C%2Belectronic%2Bchess%2Band%2Bcards%2C%2Blottery%2C%2Bsports%2C%2Bcomprehensive%2Breputation%2B(Telegram%3A%2B%40UUjd888888).nrbc&amp;hl=en">a sinister scarecrow</a> at the Winchester Mystery House, and various wildlife over seven nights of live carving at <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/06/bay-area-filoli-garden-xi-biden-meeting/">Filoli’s historic estate</a>.&nbsp;</p>

On Sunday, she spent four hours at the Ferry Building turning a 200-something-pound pumpkin into the image of a frog hugging a mushroom. As the pile of pumpkin shavings amassed around her, people stopped to admire and ask about her work. Onlookers snapped pictures and toddlers looked on in wide-eyed awe.

<p>On Sunday, she spent four hours at the Ferry Building turning a 200-something-pound pumpkin into the image of a frog hugging a mushroom. As the pile of pumpkin shavings amassed around her, people stopped to admire and ask about her work. Onlookers snapped pictures and toddlers looked on in wide-eyed awe.</p>

Minions watch as professional pumpkin carver Paulina Goff carves a pumpkin at the Ferry Building on Sunday, Oct. 27, 2024, in San Francisco.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20241029-professionalpumpkincarver-003.jpg?w=2500" alt="Children in Minion costumes gather around a large pumpkin. An adult is with them, some people in the background, and various pumpkins and decorations are visible." class="wp-image-325777"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A gaggle of Minions watch as Goff works her magic. </figcaption></figure>


For pumpkins that fall in the 200-to-250-pound range, like the one at the Ferry Building, she typically books four hours of live carving, while sculpting a really big pumpkin can eat up to eight hours or more.&nbsp;

<p>For pumpkins that fall in the 200-to-250-pound range, like the one at the Ferry Building, she typically books four hours of live carving, while sculpting a really big pumpkin can eat up to eight hours or more.&nbsp;</p>

“You’re on a time frame, so you’re go go go go go,” she said. “It can get pretty exhausting. I wake up sore most mornings in October.”&nbsp;

<p>“You’re on a time frame, so you’re go go go go go,” she said. “It can get pretty exhausting. I wake up sore most mornings in October.”&nbsp;</p>

It’s a mental challenge in addition to a physical one, figuring out how to build designs that don’t collapse.&nbsp;

<p>It’s a mental challenge in addition to a physical one, figuring out how to build designs that don’t collapse.&nbsp;</p>

“Pumpkin is so heavy, very slippery, and really hard,” Goff said, “So sometimes it’s an engineering problem, figuring out how to support the weight.”&nbsp;

<p>“Pumpkin is so heavy, very slippery, and really hard,” Goff said, “So sometimes it’s an engineering problem, figuring out how to support the weight.”&nbsp;</p>

Her work requires boxes of gear, including Exacto knives, ceramics tools like ribbon shavers, and woodcarving sets. For the real big gourds, she may need to break out the power tools.&nbsp;Sometimes she’ll also add <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C6W3SCmSw5R/?locale=Online%2Bentertainment%2C%2Breal%2Bperson%2C%2Belectronic%2Bchess%2Band%2Bcards%2C%2Blottery%2C%2Bsports%2C%2Bcomprehensive%2Breputation%2B(Telegram%3A%2B%40UUjd888888).nrbc&amp;hl=en">non-organic details</a>, like <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C7pMVFUv4tG/?locale=Online%2Bentertainment%2C%2Breal%2Bperson%2C%2Belectronic%2Bchess%2Band%2Bcards%2C%2Blottery%2C%2Bsports%2C%2Bcomprehensive%2Breputation%2B(Telegram%3A%2B%40UUjd888888).nrbc&amp;hl=en">clay teeth</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4_Fj7tPxvO/?locale=Online%2Bentertainment%2C%2Breal%2Bperson%2C%2Belectronic%2Bchess%2Band%2Bcards%2C%2Blottery%2C%2Bsports%2C%2Bcomprehensive%2Breputation%2B(Telegram%3A%2B%40UUjd888888).nrbc&amp;hl=en">paint</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DAoa5DASX9P/?locale=Online%2Bentertainment%2C%2Breal%2Bperson%2C%2Belectronic%2Bchess%2Band%2Bcards%2C%2Blottery%2C%2Bsports%2C%2Bcomprehensive%2Breputation%2B(Telegram%3A%2B%40UUjd888888).nrbc&amp;hl=en">or wood</a> or <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DA_gbV5y1SS/?locale=Online%2Bentertainment%2C%2Breal%2Bperson%2C%2Belectronic%2Bchess%2Band%2Bcards%2C%2Blottery%2C%2Bsports%2C%2Bcomprehensive%2Breputation%2B(Telegram%3A%2B%40UUjd888888).nrbc&amp;hl=en">wire structures</a> that she’ll cover with fruit.&nbsp;

<p>Her work requires boxes of gear, including Exacto knives, ceramics tools like ribbon shavers, and woodcarving sets. For the real big gourds, she may need to break out the power tools.&nbsp;Sometimes she’ll also add <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C6W3SCmSw5R/?locale=Online%2Bentertainment%2C%2Breal%2Bperson%2C%2Belectronic%2Bchess%2Band%2Bcards%2C%2Blottery%2C%2Bsports%2C%2Bcomprehensive%2Breputation%2B(Telegram%3A%2B%40UUjd888888).nrbc&amp;hl=en">non-organic details</a>, like <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C7pMVFUv4tG/?locale=Online%2Bentertainment%2C%2Breal%2Bperson%2C%2Belectronic%2Bchess%2Band%2Bcards%2C%2Blottery%2C%2Bsports%2C%2Bcomprehensive%2Breputation%2B(Telegram%3A%2B%40UUjd888888).nrbc&amp;hl=en">clay teeth</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4_Fj7tPxvO/?locale=Online%2Bentertainment%2C%2Breal%2Bperson%2C%2Belectronic%2Bchess%2Band%2Bcards%2C%2Blottery%2C%2Bsports%2C%2Bcomprehensive%2Breputation%2B(Telegram%3A%2B%40UUjd888888).nrbc&amp;hl=en">paint</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DAoa5DASX9P/?locale=Online%2Bentertainment%2C%2Breal%2Bperson%2C%2Belectronic%2Bchess%2Band%2Bcards%2C%2Blottery%2C%2Bsports%2C%2Bcomprehensive%2Breputation%2B(Telegram%3A%2B%40UUjd888888).nrbc&amp;hl=en">or wood</a> or <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DA_gbV5y1SS/?locale=Online%2Bentertainment%2C%2Breal%2Bperson%2C%2Belectronic%2Bchess%2Band%2Bcards%2C%2Blottery%2C%2Bsports%2C%2Bcomprehensive%2Breputation%2B(Telegram%3A%2B%40UUjd888888).nrbc&amp;hl=en">wire structures</a> that she’ll cover with fruit.&nbsp;</p>

Professional pumpkin carver Paulina Goff carves a pumpkin at the Ferry Building on Sunday, Oct. 27, 2024, in San Francisco.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20241029-professionalpumpkincarver-009.jpg?w=2500" alt="A person wearing gloves carves a detailed lizard or reptile design onto a large pumpkin, using a carving tool to create intricate details." class="wp-image-325783"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Goff spent four hours live carving at the Ferry Building on Sunday.</figcaption></figure>


A tool rests among pumpkin shavings as professional pumpkin carver Paulina Goff carves a pumpkin at the Ferry Building on Sunday, Oct. 27, 2024, in San Francisco.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20241029-professionalpumpkincarver-006.jpg?w=2500" alt="The image shows a carving tool on a table covered with orange pumpkin shavings and floral-patterned fabric, suggesting a pumpkin carving activity." class="wp-image-325780"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A tool rests among pumpkin shavings.</figcaption></figure>


To date, the largest pumpkin she’s carved weighed in at 1,100 pounds, though she’s hoping to get her hands on the second-place winner of this year’s Half Moon Bay pumpkin contest: <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/half-moon-bay-pumpkin-contest-narrow-win-19836683.php">a 2,465-pound monstrosity</a>. She estimates it would take three days to carve.&nbsp;

<p>To date, the largest pumpkin she’s carved weighed in at 1,100 pounds, though she’s hoping to get her hands on the second-place winner of this year’s Half Moon Bay pumpkin contest: <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/half-moon-bay-pumpkin-contest-narrow-win-19836683.php">a 2,465-pound monstrosity</a>. She estimates it would take three days to carve.&nbsp;</p>

While Goff gets the bulk of her jobs in October, her season really starts in mid-September and extends to early December. When pumpkins aren’t available, Goff carves other fruits and veggies, including butternut squash or sweet potatoes. Her favorite artwork she’s ever sculpted — <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8NNUc-vNSX/?locale=Online%2Bentertainment%2C%2Breal%2Bperson%2C%2Belectronic%2Bchess%2Band%2Bcards%2C%2Blottery%2C%2Bsports%2C%2Bcomprehensive%2Breputation%2B(Telegram%3A%2B%40UUjd888888).nrbc&amp;hl=en">a xenomorph from “Alien</a>&#8221; —&nbsp;came from whittling a giant zucchini with a carrot for its tongue.&nbsp;

<p>While Goff gets the bulk of her jobs in October, her season really starts in mid-September and extends to early December. When pumpkins aren’t available, Goff carves other fruits and veggies, including butternut squash or sweet potatoes. Her favorite artwork she’s ever sculpted — <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8NNUc-vNSX/?locale=Online%2Bentertainment%2C%2Breal%2Bperson%2C%2Belectronic%2Bchess%2Band%2Bcards%2C%2Blottery%2C%2Bsports%2C%2Bcomprehensive%2Breputation%2B(Telegram%3A%2B%40UUjd888888).nrbc&amp;hl=en">a xenomorph from “Alien</a>" —&nbsp;came from whittling a giant zucchini with a carrot for its tongue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Goff gets the bulk of her jobs in October, her season really starts in mid-September and extends to early December. When pumpkins aren’t available, Goff carves other fruits and veggies, including butternut squash or sweet potatoes. Her favorite artwork she’s ever sculpted — <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8NNUc-vNSX/?locale=Online%2Bentertainment%2C%2Breal%2Bperson%2C%2Belectronic%2Bchess%2Band%2Bcards%2C%2Blottery%2C%2Bsports%2C%2Bcomprehensive%2Breputation%2B(Telegram%3A%2B%40UUjd888888).nrbc&amp;hl=en">a xenomorph from “Alien</a>&#8221; —&nbsp;came from whittling a giant zucchini with a carrot for its tongue.&nbsp;</p>

The hardest part of her work is that pumpkins don’t grow year-round, she notes, and she’s considering applying her carving skills to sand art or ice sculpture.

<p>The hardest part of her work is that pumpkins don’t grow year-round, she notes, and she’s considering applying her carving skills to sand art or ice sculpture.</p>

“Pumpkins are so seasonal, so I want to find more ways to work on art,” she said.&nbsp;

<p>“Pumpkins are so seasonal, so I want to find more ways to work on art,” she said.&nbsp;</p>

When Goff gets a pumpkin gig, she works with clients to bring their specific vision to life, but her personal style is inspired by film effects from the 1980s and ’90s. She also gets ideas from her husband and, more recently, her two kids, who love watching her work.&nbsp;

<p>When Goff gets a pumpkin gig, she works with clients to bring their specific vision to life, but her personal style is inspired by film effects from the 1980s and ’90s. She also gets ideas from her husband and, more recently, her two kids, who love watching her work.&nbsp;</p>

“It’s like the badass version of pumpkin carving,” she said of her creations. “Most of my carvings aren’t really creepy or gory, but they are kick-ass.”

<p>“It’s like the badass version of pumpkin carving,” she said of her creations. “Most of my carvings aren’t really creepy or gory, but they are kick-ass.”</p>

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border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; 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transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C8fS1zuSN64/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Paulina Goff (@carvedfx)</a></p></div></blockquote><script async src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>

The price she charges clients depends on a number of factors, including&nbsp;the size of the pumpkin and how late in the season she’s working (the last two weekends of October fetch the highest sums). And of course her final products are fleeting by nature.

<p>The price she charges clients depends on a number of factors, including&nbsp;the size of the pumpkin and how late in the season she’s working (the last two weekends of October fetch the highest sums). And of course her final products are fleeting by nature.</p>

“You’re creating something that’s going to rot,” she said.&nbsp;

<p>“You’re creating something that’s going to rot,” she said.&nbsp;</p>

While she’s preserved some of her favorite creations in vinegar, including <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C5oaq4IPZ55/?locale=Online%2Bentertainment%2C%2Breal%2Bperson%2C%2Belectronic%2Bchess%2Band%2Bcards%2C%2Blottery%2C%2Bsports%2C%2Bcomprehensive%2Breputation%2B%28Telegram%3A%2B%40UUjd888888%29.nrbc&amp;hl=en&amp;img_index=1">an alligator skull carved from a squash</a>, she admits there’s something special about ephemeral art: “It’s not going to last, so you gotta take as many pictures as you can.”

<p>While she’s preserved some of her favorite creations in vinegar, including <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C5oaq4IPZ55/?locale=Online%2Bentertainment%2C%2Breal%2Bperson%2C%2Belectronic%2Bchess%2Band%2Bcards%2C%2Blottery%2C%2Bsports%2C%2Bcomprehensive%2Breputation%2B%28Telegram%3A%2B%40UUjd888888%29.nrbc&amp;hl=en&amp;img_index=1">an alligator skull carved from a squash</a>, she admits there’s something special about ephemeral art: “It’s not going to last, so you gotta take as many pictures as you can.”</p>

The Picasso of pumpkin carvers? How one woman turns 1,000-pound gourds into art

Sam Mondros

Do you ever feel like you don’t understand art? That’s OK. We’re not sure Mark Zuckerberg does either.&nbsp;

<p>Do you ever feel like you don’t understand art? That’s OK. We’re not sure Mark Zuckerberg does either.&nbsp;</p>

Last week via Instagram, the platform’s owner proudly revealed a seven-foot-tall turquoise and chrome sculpture in the likeness of his wife, Priscilla Chan, placed in his backyard.&nbsp;

<p>Last week via Instagram, the platform’s owner proudly revealed a seven-foot-tall turquoise and chrome sculpture in the likeness of his wife, Priscilla Chan, placed in his backyard.&nbsp;</p>

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-instagram wp-block-embed-instagram"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.instagram.com/p/C-naZ9NvQNu/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D
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<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C-naZ9NvQNu/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:500px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C-naZ9NvQNu/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; 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transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; 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“​​Bringing back the Roman tradition of making sculptures of your wife,” Zuckerberg announced to his 14.5 million followers.&nbsp;

<p>“​​Bringing back the Roman tradition of making sculptures of your wife,” Zuckerberg announced to his 14.5 million followers.&nbsp;</p>

The sculpture is by <a href="https://www.perrotin.com/artists/Daniel_Arsham/17#images">Daniel Arsham</a>, a New York-based sculptor who makes everything from giant Pokemon cards to NFTs of Porsches. His work has been featured at some of the most acclaimed museums and galleries in the world. (Last month, he was also accused of violating federal law for firing an employee who supported a workers union, according to a <a href="https://www.nlrb.gov/case/29-CA-335562">complaint filed with the National Labor Relations Board</a>. But that&#8217;s another story.)

<p>The sculpture is by <a href="https://www.perrotin.com/artists/Daniel_Arsham/17#images">Daniel Arsham</a>, a New York-based sculptor who makes everything from giant Pokemon cards to NFTs of Porsches. His work has been featured at some of the most acclaimed museums and galleries in the world. (Last month, he was also accused of violating federal law for firing an employee who supported a workers union, according to a <a href="https://www.nlrb.gov/case/29-CA-335562">complaint filed with the National Labor Relations Board</a>. But that's another story.)</p>

<p>The sculpture is by <a href="https://www.perrotin.com/artists/Daniel_Arsham/17#images">Daniel Arsham</a>, a New York-based sculptor who makes everything from giant Pokemon cards to NFTs of Porsches. His work has been featured at some of the most acclaimed museums and galleries in the world. (Last month, he was also accused of violating federal law for firing an employee who supported a workers union, according to a <a href="https://www.nlrb.gov/case/29-CA-335562">complaint filed with the National Labor Relations Board</a>. But that&#8217;s another story.)</p>

So what of his latest work for the Zuckerberg-Chan family? Is it kitschy? Elegant? Ironic? Inspired? The Standard asked several esteemed Bay Area curators, gallery owners, critics and professors for their takes on the billionaire’s commission. 

<p>So what of his latest work for the Zuckerberg-Chan family? Is it kitschy? Elegant? Ironic? Inspired? The Standard asked several esteemed Bay Area curators, gallery owners, critics and professors for their takes on the billionaire’s commission. </p>

And below, we ask our readers: What do you think?

<p>And below, we ask our readers: What do you think?</p>

It's an abomination. The Romans would never.

It's an inspired piece of art. I'd buy it (with his money).

crowdsignal-forms/poll

core/separator

Glen Helfand, chair of Curatorial Practice Program, California College of the Arts&nbsp;


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glen-helfand-chair-of-curatorial-practice-program-california-college-of-the-arts-nbsp">Glen Helfand, chair of Curatorial Practice Program, California College of the Arts&nbsp;</h2>


core/heading

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glen-helfand-chair-of-curatorial-practice-program-california-college-of-the-arts-nbsp">Glen Helfand, chair of Curatorial Practice Program, California College of the Arts&nbsp;</h2>

It’s tempting to dismiss the sculpture as Las Vegas kitsch, an Avatar-inspired character, or some kind of riff on the green patina of the Statue of Liberty. But it is what it is — an expensive Zuckerberg-commissioned bauble by a vetted artist. It’s interesting to consider it as an insight into the tech guy’s taste and psyche.&nbsp;

<p>It’s tempting to dismiss the sculpture as Las Vegas kitsch, an Avatar-inspired character, or some kind of riff on the green patina of the Statue of Liberty. But it is what it is — an expensive Zuckerberg-commissioned bauble by a vetted artist. It’s interesting to consider it as an insight into the tech guy’s taste and psyche.&nbsp;</p>

Daniel Arsham is one of those big guy artists, a kind of younger, lesser-known <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/05/17/arts/jeff-koons-auction-christies.html">Jeff Koons</a>. He has done design collaborations with luxury brands — including <a href="https://www.tiffany.com/stories/guide/daniel-arsham-x-tiffany-knot/">Tiffany</a>, which might be another reference for Priscilla’s blue skin — on utilitarian objects. He even did a stylish rentable cabin on the grounds of <a href="https://www.kohler.com/en/collaborations/daniel-arsham">Kohler</a>, a home appliance company, and big and expensive pieces riffing on antiquity and pop culture.

<p>Daniel Arsham is one of those big guy artists, a kind of younger, lesser-known <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/05/17/arts/jeff-koons-auction-christies.html">Jeff Koons</a>. He has done design collaborations with luxury brands — including <a href="https://www.tiffany.com/stories/guide/daniel-arsham-x-tiffany-knot/">Tiffany</a>, which might be another reference for Priscilla’s blue skin — on utilitarian objects. He even did a stylish rentable cabin on the grounds of <a href="https://www.kohler.com/en/collaborations/daniel-arsham">Kohler</a>, a home appliance company, and big and expensive pieces riffing on antiquity and pop culture.</p>

In terms of this sculpture’s artistic success, I point to what it says about its subject. Does it reveal anything about Chan&#8217;s role, her personality, her heroism? I’m guessing it’s more of a private thing between husband and wife, as it doesn’t communicate much in a general way. And it’s a safe bet that it won’t be among the top bid items whenever the Chan-Zuckerberg estate hits auction.

<p>In terms of this sculpture’s artistic success, I point to what it says about its subject. Does it reveal anything about Chan's role, her personality, her heroism? I’m guessing it’s more of a private thing between husband and wife, as it doesn’t communicate much in a general way. And it’s a safe bet that it won’t be among the top bid items whenever the Chan-Zuckerberg estate hits auction.</p>

<p>In terms of this sculpture’s artistic success, I point to what it says about its subject. Does it reveal anything about Chan&#8217;s role, her personality, her heroism? I’m guessing it’s more of a private thing between husband and wife, as it doesn’t communicate much in a general way. And it’s a safe bet that it won’t be among the top bid items whenever the Chan-Zuckerberg estate hits auction.</p>

Jessica Silverman, gallery owner, former San Francisco Arts Commission member&nbsp;


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-jessica-silverman-gallery-owner-former-san-francisco-arts-commission-member-nbsp">Jessica Silverman, gallery owner, former San Francisco Arts Commission member&nbsp;</h2>


The first thing that&nbsp;came to mind when I saw images of the Arsham sculpture was “Wow, that fabrication looks amazing.” I don’t know what the materials are, but it looks like polished steel and some sort of patinated metal or bronze. Because we produce a lot of large-scale&nbsp;sculptures, I am always immediately curious about fabrication, and this looks really strong.

<p>The first thing that&nbsp;came to mind when I saw images of the Arsham sculpture was “Wow, that fabrication looks amazing.” I don’t know what the materials are, but it looks like polished steel and some sort of patinated metal or bronze. Because we produce a lot of large-scale&nbsp;sculptures, I am always immediately curious about fabrication, and this looks really strong.</p>

<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/05/04/sarah-thornton-tits-up/">My wife</a> and I always decide on art together, so I could not get away with surprising her with a sculpture portrait. And even if I did so, she probably would not let me install it.&nbsp;However, this gesture&nbsp;tells me about their relationship. And, for people who are in the public like they are — attempting to be very private — I think it’s a rare inside look at a kind of humor within a relationship that we don’t know much about.&nbsp;

‘Tits Up’ author Sarah Thornton and her uplifting quest to reclaim the breast

<p><a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/05/04/sarah-thornton-tits-up/">My wife</a> and I always decide on art together, so I could not get away with surprising her with a sculpture portrait. And even if I did so, she probably would not let me install it.&nbsp;However, this gesture&nbsp;tells me about their relationship. And, for people who are in the public like they are — attempting to be very private — I think it’s a rare inside look at a kind of humor within a relationship that we don’t know much about.&nbsp;</p>

It’s an amusing thing. It’s putting your wife on a pedestal — literally making her larger-than-life. And so you feel a kind of adoration, right? Which is quite sweet at the core.

<p>It’s an amusing thing. It’s putting your wife on a pedestal — literally making her larger-than-life. And so you feel a kind of adoration, right? Which is quite sweet at the core.</p>

Nathan Lynch, sculptor, chair of the Ceramics Program at California College of the Arts&nbsp;


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nathan-lynch-sculptor-chair-of-the-ceramics-program-at-california-college-of-the-arts-nbsp">Nathan Lynch, sculptor, chair of the Ceramics Program at California College of the Arts&nbsp;</h2>


It’s an interesting intersection of the technology scene and the art scene. Tech is the money class of San Francisco and historically, that tech class has not supported the arts at a deep level. And that&#8217;s the move they&#8217;re going to make to support the arts?&nbsp;

<p>It’s an interesting intersection of the technology scene and the art scene. Tech is the money class of San Francisco and historically, that tech class has not supported the arts at a deep level. And that's the move they're going to make to support the arts?&nbsp;</p>

<p>It’s an interesting intersection of the technology scene and the art scene. Tech is the money class of San Francisco and historically, that tech class has not supported the arts at a deep level. And that&#8217;s the move they&#8217;re going to make to support the arts?&nbsp;</p>

Alexandra Sofroniew, professor of art history at University of California at Davis, specializing in ancient Greek, Roman and Etruscan art&nbsp;


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alexandra-sofroniew-professor-of-art-history-at-university-of-california-at-davis-specializing-in-ancient-greek-roman-and-etruscan-art-nbsp">Alexandra Sofroniew, professor of art history at University of California at Davis, specializing in ancient Greek, Roman and Etruscan art&nbsp;</h2>


Wow, that is quite the statue. I might use it in class.

<p>Wow, that is quite the statue. I might use it in class.</p>

While the habit of displaying statues of family members in one’s home or garden — where one might otherwise find statues of philosophers, politicians or playwrights — is more Roman than Greek, the dramatic style of the drapery enveloping the figure and the way it billows behind her like wings comes straight from Hellenistic Greek art, especially the Winged Victory from Samothrace.

<p>While the habit of displaying statues of family members in one’s home or garden — where one might otherwise find statues of philosophers, politicians or playwrights — is more Roman than Greek, the dramatic style of the drapery enveloping the figure and the way it billows behind her like wings comes straight from Hellenistic Greek art, especially the Winged Victory from Samothrace.</p>

Visitors take photos of "The Winged Victory of Samothrace" at the Louvre in Paris, on Aug. 9, 2023. 


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/gettyimages-1587086692.jpg?w=2500" alt="People are gathered beneath a statue with wings." class="wp-image-302960"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Alexandra Sofroniew, a professor at University of California at Davis, said the Zuckerberg&#8217;s sculpture was similar to the Winged Victory of Samothrace, which sits at the Louvre in Paris.</figcaption></figure>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/gettyimages-1587086692.jpg?w=2500" alt="People are gathered beneath a statue with wings." class="wp-image-302960"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Alexandra Sofroniew, a professor at University of California at Davis, said the Zuckerberg's sculpture was similar to the Winged Victory of Samothrace, which sits at the Louvre in Paris.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/gettyimages-1587086692.jpg?w=2500" alt="People are gathered beneath a statue with wings." class="wp-image-302960"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Alexandra Sofroniew, a professor at University of California at Davis, said the Zuckerberg&#8217;s sculpture was similar to the Winged Victory of Samothrace, which sits at the Louvre in Paris.</figcaption></figure>

Personally, the Hellenistic style is my favorite, and I think the statue is beautiful. It shows a woman as powerful and strong, yet delicate, as she gently alights on the ground.

<p>Personally, the Hellenistic style is my favorite, and I think the statue is beautiful. It shows a woman as powerful and strong, yet delicate, as she gently alights on the ground.</p>

Max Blue, art critic for the San Francisco Examiner, whose work has also appeared in <a href="https://sfstandard.com/author/max-blue/">The Standard</a>&nbsp;


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-max-blue-art-critic-for-the-san-francisco-examiner-whose-work-has-also-appeared-in-the-standard-nbsp">Max Blue, art critic for the San Francisco Examiner, whose work has also appeared in <a href="https://sfstandard.com/author/max-blue/">The Standard</a>&nbsp;</h2>


Aside from the blue color, which is sort of that artist’s aesthetic, there&#8217;s really nothing that feels particularly unique about the work. It&#8217;s a decent likeness of Zuckerberg&#8217;s wife, but I think any competent sculptor could accomplish that in that way, which begs the question: Why not choose some other artist who is actually local to the area?&nbsp;

<p>Aside from the blue color, which is sort of that artist’s aesthetic, there's really nothing that feels particularly unique about the work. It's a decent likeness of Zuckerberg's wife, but I think any competent sculptor could accomplish that in that way, which begs the question: Why not choose some other artist who is actually local to the area?&nbsp;</p>

<p>Aside from the blue color, which is sort of that artist’s aesthetic, there&#8217;s really nothing that feels particularly unique about the work. It&#8217;s a decent likeness of Zuckerberg&#8217;s wife, but I think any competent sculptor could accomplish that in that way, which begs the question: Why not choose some other artist who is actually local to the area?&nbsp;</p>

There&#8217;s been such a long history that I hear from local artists feeling in opposition to tech and tech money, and I don&#8217;t know if that would be the case if Zuckerberg had commissioned a local artist.&nbsp;

<p>There's been such a long history that I hear from local artists feeling in opposition to tech and tech money, and I don't know if that would be the case if Zuckerberg had commissioned a local artist.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There&#8217;s been such a long history that I hear from local artists feeling in opposition to tech and tech money, and I don&#8217;t know if that would be the case if Zuckerberg had commissioned a local artist.&nbsp;</p>

A great example is when the San Francisco Arts Commission commissioned all-new work for the Muni extension, they commissioned all local artists — even though it was a national call that people could apply to. They went with almost all local artists, and the <a href="https://www.sfmta.com/blog/new-connection-art-chinatown">women who did the work</a> for the station in Chinatown were local craftspeople and weren’t really famous artists at all. This kind of investment is perfectly possible.&nbsp;

<p>A great example is when the San Francisco Arts Commission commissioned all-new work for the Muni extension, they commissioned all local artists — even though it was a national call that people could apply to. They went with almost all local artists, and the <a href="https://www.sfmta.com/blog/new-connection-art-chinatown">women who did the work</a> for the station in Chinatown were local craftspeople and weren’t really famous artists at all. This kind of investment is perfectly possible.&nbsp;</p>

I had a laugh-out-loud moment when Zuckerberg said he’s “bringing back a Roman tradition,” which is a hacky, desperate reach for an art historical reference. Especially in this political climate, the idea of citing Roman tradition seems a little dicey. It very much felt to me that that was maybe the one art historical reference he could pull out of his pocket.&nbsp;

<p>I had a laugh-out-loud moment when Zuckerberg said he’s “bringing back a Roman tradition,” which is a hacky, desperate reach for an art historical reference. Especially in this political climate, the idea of citing Roman tradition seems a little dicey. It very much felt to me that that was maybe the one art historical reference he could pull out of his pocket.&nbsp;</p>

The patronage of the arts in the Renaissance fell to the nobility — if you want to think of these tech billionaires as nobility. The Medici family supported local arts in Florence at the time. You know they [weren’t] going to Paris to spread their money around. They [were] supporting art in their city and actually [saw] the importance of supporting a robust sense of culture. And it seems to me that Zuckerberg just wants to create a space of total unreality.

<p>The patronage of the arts in the Renaissance fell to the nobility — if you want to think of these tech billionaires as nobility. The Medici family supported local arts in Florence at the time. You know they [weren’t] going to Paris to spread their money around. They [were] supporting art in their city and actually [saw] the importance of supporting a robust sense of culture. And it seems to me that Zuckerberg just wants to create a space of total unreality.</p>

It just brings me back to the idea that a real opportunity was missed.&nbsp;

<p> It just brings me back to the idea that a real opportunity was missed.&nbsp;</p>

Zuck erected a sculpture of his wife. Here’s what the Bay Area art world says about it

The Standard Staff

<strong>Check out the following link for the latest entries in <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/midterm-election-san-francisco-supervisors-ballot-measures/">The Standard’s Election Day Live Blog</a>. See below for entries from earlier in the day. </strong>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Check out the following link for the latest entries in <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/midterm-election-san-francisco-supervisors-ballot-measures/">The Standard’s Election Day Live Blog</a>. See below for entries from earlier in the day. </strong></h2>


<strong>4:57 p.m. | No Long Lines at City Polling Places </strong>


<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>4:57 p.m. | No Long Lines at City Polling Places </strong></h3>


If you&#8217;re following election coverage from other states, you&#8217;ve probably seen reports of long lines and lengthy wait times to vote. That&#8217;s not the case in San Francisco. A quick look at the&nbsp;<a href="https://sfelections.org/tools/map_poll_time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SF Elections map</a>&nbsp;helps explain why.

<p>If you're following election coverage from other states, you've probably seen reports of long lines and lengthy wait times to vote. That's not the case in San Francisco. A quick look at the&nbsp;<a href="https://sfelections.org/tools/map_poll_time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SF Elections map</a>&nbsp;helps explain why.</p>

<p>If you&#8217;re following election coverage from other states, you&#8217;ve probably seen reports of long lines and lengthy wait times to vote. That&#8217;s not the case in San Francisco. A quick look at the&nbsp;<a href="https://sfelections.org/tools/map_poll_time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SF Elections map</a>&nbsp;helps explain why.</p>

The city is carpeted with polling places, and many San Franciscans receive mail-in ballots ahead of the vote. Currently, almost all polling places have no wait—although they may get busier as the workday ends.

<p>The city is carpeted with polling places, and many San Franciscans receive mail-in ballots ahead of the vote. Currently, almost all polling places have no wait—although they may get busier as the workday ends.</p>

&#8220;I moved here from Colorado, (and) what I find amazing is how many polling places there are,&#8221; poll worker Tom Japhet told The Standard at the polling place in St. Michael’s Ukrainian Orthodox Church.&nbsp;

<p>"I moved here from Colorado, (and) what I find amazing is how many polling places there are," poll worker Tom Japhet told The Standard at the polling place in St. Michael’s Ukrainian Orthodox Church.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&#8220;I moved here from Colorado, (and) what I find amazing is how many polling places there are,&#8221; poll worker Tom Japhet told The Standard at the polling place in St. Michael’s Ukrainian Orthodox Church.&nbsp;</p>

<strong>4:34 p.m. | Rare Pro-Life Poster Found in San Francisco</strong>


<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>4:34 p.m. | Rare Pro-Life Poster Found in San Francisco</strong></h3>


A rare “No on Prop 1” sign hangs on the fence of St. Peter’s Catholic Church in the Latino Cultural District of the Mission District in San Francisco on Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022. | Kevin V. Nguyen


<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/ElectionBlog-NoProp1SIgn-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-91043"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A rare “No on Prop. 1” sign hangs on the fence of St. Peter’s Catholic Church in the Latino Cultural District of the Mission District in San Francisco on Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022. | Kevin V. Nguyen</figcaption></figure>


Social justice murals can be found all over the Latino Cultural District in the Mission District, but a rare “No on Prop. 1” poster was spotted Tuesday afternoon at St. Peter’s Catholic Church. Prop. 1 would add the right to abortion and contraceptive use to the California constitution.

<p>Social justice murals can be found all over the Latino Cultural District in the Mission District, but a rare “No on Prop. 1” poster was spotted Tuesday afternoon at St. Peter’s Catholic Church. Prop. 1 would add the right to abortion and contraceptive use to the California constitution.</p>

<strong>4:20 p.m. | Your Election Day 4-20 Break</strong>


<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>4:20 p.m. | Your Election Day 4-20 Break</strong></h3>


Election Day can be stressful—especially when it’s the fourth one in a calendar year. If you’re freaking out about the fate of a 244-year-old democracy or just really invested in yet another ballot measure regarding dialysis, you might want a nice diversion. Here are some <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/hilarious-nonpartisan-tweets-to-keep-you-from-screaming-on-election-day/">nonpartisan tweets</a> to take a quick breather before we jump back into the fray.

<p>Election Day can be stressful—especially when it’s the fourth one in a calendar year. If you’re freaking out about the fate of a 244-year-old democracy or just really invested in yet another ballot measure regarding dialysis, you might want a nice diversion. Here are some <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/hilarious-nonpartisan-tweets-to-keep-you-from-screaming-on-election-day/">nonpartisan tweets</a> to take a quick breather before we jump back into the fray.</p>

<strong>3:48 p.m. | Where Should the City Put Its Money?</strong>


<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>3:48 p.m. | Where Should the City Put Its Money?</strong></h3>


core/video

Delia Cullen, an 84-year-old city resident, voted today at a garage at 483 Ellington St.&nbsp;with conservative issues on her mind.&nbsp;She said the city spends too much money on programs for the homeless when it should be funding schools and transit.

<p>Delia Cullen, an 84-year-old city resident, voted today at a garage at 483 Ellington St.&nbsp;with conservative issues on her mind.&nbsp;She said the city spends too much money on programs for the homeless when it should be funding schools and transit.</p>

<strong>3:20 p.m. | An SF Tradition—Garage Polling Places</strong>


<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>3:20 p.m. | An SF Tradition—Garage Polling Places</strong></h3>


It’s practically a San Francisco tradition: opening a polling place in a residential garage. For real estate manager Samuel Palmer, this is at least his 10th time hosting one at his Potrero Hill home—he’s lost count. So, what’s kept Palmer returning for more?

<p>It’s practically a San Francisco tradition: opening a polling place in a residential garage. For real estate manager Samuel Palmer, this is at least his 10th time hosting one at his Potrero Hill home—he’s lost count. So, what’s kept Palmer returning for more?</p>

“Democracy,” he said. “If you still believe in democracy, I kinda still believe you have to do this.”

<p>“Democracy,” he said. “If you still believe in democracy, I kinda still believe you have to do this.”</p>

Oh yeah. One more reason: “My wife and I are forced to tidy up our garage,” he adds with a laugh. Around 10 people have filled out ballots in person, while over 30 have dropped mail-in ballots into the ballot box.

<p>Oh yeah. One more reason: “My wife and I are forced to tidy up our garage,” he adds with a laugh. Around 10 people have filled out ballots in person, while over 30 have dropped mail-in ballots into the ballot box.</p>

<strong>3:10 p.m. | First-Generation San Franciscans Learn Through Doing</strong>


<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>3:10 p.m. | First-Generation San Franciscans Learn Through Doing</strong></h3>


Isabel A., left, and and Mitsumi S., right, are both seniors at Lincoln High School, and are participating in their first ever election. Both students won’t be able to vote until next year, but when they do, they will be the first in their families to do so. The two students clocked into their shift at San Francisco Fire Station #7 at 6 a.m. and are staying until polls close at 7 p.m., on Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022. | Kevin V. Nguyen/The Standard


<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/ElectionBlog-Firestation-5.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-90960"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Isabel A. (left) and Mitsumi S—seniors at Lincoln High School—are participating in their first-ever election. Both students&nbsp;won’t&nbsp;be able to vote until next year, but they said they will become the first in their families to do so. | Kevin V. Nguyen/The Standard</figcaption></figure>


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The Picasso of pumpkin carvers? How one woman turns 1,000-pound gourds into art

Zuck erected a sculpture of his wife. Here’s what the Bay Area art world says about it

Live blog: SF firefighters and private citizens open their garages for democracy

Matson shipping empire might just be the inspiration for Jennifer Coolidge’s lineage on HBO’s ‘White Lotus’

Get to know the longshots running for San Francisco mayor