5 illuminating art installations in San Francisco

Designed by Leo Villareal, the western span of the bridge is now illuminated with 25.000 white LED lights that twinkle every evening from dusk to dawn. Originally planned as a two-year installation, it is now a permanent one. Stroll along the Embarcadero to witness this shimmering light show.

Look up to see this hanging installation (designed by Brian Goggin and Dorka Keehn) which features a flock of 23 illuminated books that mimic birds in flight. The pages and bindings acting as wings. Beneath the flock are words in English, Italian and Chinese representing the diverse communities that intersect in this neighborhood.

This illuminated 30-meter pedestrian bridge was designed by Leo Villareal, the same artist behind The Bay Lights. It features 28.000 overhead LED bulbs that change 30 times per second into many colors. The best viewing time is at night from the corner of Howard and Third Streets.

This 57-meter mural is painted on the facade of an old grain tower and elevator. Laura Haddad and Tom Drugan designed the artwork, and the images of cherry plants, a heron, cow and red balloons are symbolic of the neighborhood. It’s best viewed at night, as shifting colored lights highlight individual images of the painting.

Watch one of the most glorious structures transform into a canvas of lights at night. From dusk until midnight, a dazzling display of colors and flowers are projected onto the conservatory. It’s a fun tribute to the Summer of Love in San Francisco.