The monumental Zhang Huan sculpture "Three Heads Six Arms Buddha" in Civic Center Plaza, which was installed in May last year, is being disassembled today ahead of schedule for shipment back to the artist in Shanghai.
There has been no official explanation of the removal, but it's possible the artist was afraid he wouldn't get it back.
The neighborhood certainly fell in love with the sculpture, which was whimsical while being sturdy enough to compete with City Hall and the surrounding government buildings around the plaza. Watching tourists giggle and pose in front of the piece was also a daily pleasure, as was the occasional butoh dance appearing out of the mist in front of the 3-6 Buddha. He will be missed.
Very Sad :-(
ReplyDeleteHad you noticed that CurbedSF has referenced you blog a couple of times recently?
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Dear affinity: Yes to both comments. Hope you enjoyed Palm Springs.
ReplyDeleteNow THAT is really a damn shame!
ReplyDeleteA little odd to see that institutional orange color of the scaffolding of the huge, imposing yet whimsical thing. At first glance, I thought it might be the S.F. Giants logo.
ReplyDeleteI love the Buddha and am so sad it's gone. It was whimsical and wonderful and perfect in that location. It brought the whole plaza alive. And what a great spot for a demonstration. I went to the gathering last Saturday organized by Amnesty International and others to celebrate the triumph of democracy and nonviolence in Egypt. It was joyous - the most moving event I've been to in a long time.
ReplyDeleteDear Markley: Glad to hear you were at that Egypt celebration/gathering. And you're right, the Buddha made the plaza alive.
ReplyDeleteTRAGIC. That sculptor should have been honored that his work was so enjoyed by so many people! !!!!
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