Perhaps the biggest smile you will see today is on the Smile Sculpture right here in San Francisco. This sculpture captures a simple human expression. It is an emotion we all understand. But do you know the story behind this captivating piece of art?
The Smile Sculpture is part of a larger series of public art installations. This series is known as Hearts in San Francisco. The San Francisco General Hospital Foundation started it in 2004. Its purpose is to raise funds. The project took its inspiration from the CowParade exhibit. In that exhibit, artists painted cow sculptures. These were then installed in cities worldwide.
Tony Bennett’s song “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” inspired the heart theme. Each year, different artists paint uniform heart sculptures. They install these at locations throughout San Francisco. Union Square is a popular spot. At the end of each year, they auction the heart sculptures. The proceeds go to the foundation.
Many sculptures from previous years are still on display. You can find them at San Francisco City Hall. They also appear at San Francisco General Hospital. San Francisco International Airport also displays them. Other locations include Pier 39 and the Moscone Center. The Cartoon Art Museum has even showcased some. As of 2024, the project has raised over $38 million. All of this money went to the foundation.
Many notable artists have contributed to this cause. Tony Bennett is one of them. Others include Squeak Carnwath and Alan Chin. Roy De Forest and Linda Fleming have also participated. Phil Frank and Tim Gaskin added their artistic talents. Mildred Howard and Norman Korpi are other contributors. Jon Langford and Hung Liu have also been involved. Kara Maria and Silvia Poloto are also on the list. Precita Eyes Muralists and Rex Ray have contributed too. Rigo 23 and Bill Russell have also participated. Monika Steiner and Laurel True are other contributing artists. Eric Zener is another artist who helped.
Public art enriches our environment. It sparks thoughts. The Smile Sculpture here reminds us of the power of art. It also highlights the generosity of the San Francisco community. This amazing sculpture embodies the spirit of giving. It supports a worthy cause. It also brings a bit of joy to all who see it. So take a moment. Enjoy the Smile Sculpture. Remember its story. Let its message brighten your day.
But The Smile Sculpture is not related to the Hearts in San Francisco project but part of Seward Johnson’s “Celebrating the Familiar” series. J. Seward Johnson Jr. is the artist behind the sculpture.