Granite, bronze, or mosaic: which material best captures a saint’s spirit? Here before the Saint Francis of Assisi Statue, we find ourselves contemplating this very question.
Saint Francis of Assisi was a key inspiration for the artist Bufano. Bufano revered the saint. He loved animals and embraced peace. He also embraced poverty. Bufano honored Saint Francis with statues and portraits. Many works depict animals, birds, and children.
Bufano’s works were sometimes controversial. One such work was Saint Francis de la Varenne. He carved it in Paris from a twelve-ton piece of granite in 1927-28. After 27 years in storage, it was shipped to San Francisco in 1955. It was installed at the Church of St. Francis of Assisi in North Beach. The pastor insisted it be moved in 1960. He stated that the enormous sculpture interfered with processions. Today it stands near Fisherman’s Wharf. It stands in front of Memorial Hall.
Another compelling sculpture is Saint Francis of the Guns. It is located at the entrance to San Francisco City College. After the 1968 shootings, Mayor Joseph Alioto commissioned Bufano to sculpt something with melted gunmetal. The base depicts the multi-racial Children of the World singing. Above them are portraits of assassinated leaders. These are Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy, Robert Kennedy, and Martin Luther King Jr. Mayor George Moscone dedicated the statue in 1977.
Other Saint Francis statues by Bufano can be found in Napa. They are at the Robert Mondavi Winery. In San Francisco, they are at Grace Cathedral. They are also at SF State University and at Westside Courts.
Bufano’s grave at Holy Cross Cemetery is marked by a beautiful Saint Francis. It is made of bronze and decorated with a mosaic of birds. Bufano immigrated from Italy. He lived in San Francisco from 1917 until his death in 1970. He was known for his opposition to war. He dedicated himself to accessible art. He also had a mischievous public persona. Bufano is best known for his minimalistic sculptures. These depict Saint Francis and animals. Many appear in areas dedicated to children.
Bufano’s statues began appearing in significant public places. This was through the Federal Art Project in the 1930s. Over two dozen still stand in San Francisco today.
This pilgrimage invites us to encounter Saint Francis. We can do this through Bufano’s public art. Bufano’s statues are scattered throughout the city. They stand amidst everyday life. His monuments to peace also embody a Franciscan theme.
Notice the environment in which the Saint Francis of Assisi Statue stands. How does the environment affect your perception? How do passersby engage with the statue? Does the atmosphere invite meditation? Does it call us to integrate the transcendent? Does the juxtaposition call us to action or contemplation?