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Commissioned by the founders of GAP and created by an artist couple, this giant art piece, resembling Cupid's bow and arrow, is right along the Embarcadero and a brief 5-10min walk away from the Ferry building. Residing on a small, grassy hill, there are often local and tourists alike camped out here on nice days enjoying a picnic, relaxing, and snapping up some candid photo shots. And it's not surprising why, considering the beautiful close-up view of the Bay waters and the Bay Bridge. Spanning 60' tall, with an arrow 140' long, you definitely will not miss this large structure as you travel down the Embarcadero either towards the ballpark, or on your way towards Pier 39.
I def recommend checking this out especially if you're visiting the Bay Area or live in the Bay Area grab a blanket and have a picnic in the area. The ferry building is about 5-10 min walk away, there's epic steakhouse, a bunch of restaurants close by to come check out during an off day or even just to see the beautiful views of the bridge and come check out the area and see what's new. The reason why I recommend this on a beautiful or foggy day is because the views are always spectacular and you can see Alcatraz and treasure island and as well as the bridge come check this place out!
Must-go, iconic SF photo-op spot. Pass by on a run, nice stroll, bike ride, or when driving on the Embarcadero. And you can always just hang out on the benches, or cement pillars, or grass.
A Symbol of Love in San Francisco Cupid's Span is a sculpture located in Rincon Park along the Embarcadero in San Francisco. Installed in 2002, it was created by married artists Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, who are known for their large public sculptures that turn everyday objects into interesting art. The sculpture looks like a giant bow and arrow, inspired by Cupid, the Roman god of love. The bow is 60 feet tall, and the arrow is 140 feet long. Made of steel and fiberglass, it features bright red and yellow colors that stand out against the city skyline and San Francisco Bay. I work nearby and see this sculpture often. It is a popular spot for photos among locals and tourists. Cupid's Span sits in Rincon Park, a small green area with beautiful views of the Bay Bridge. Many people enjoy spending their lunch breaks here, and it's a great place for picnics, walks, and other outdoor activities. The sculpture was part of a project to enhance the waterfront and make it more inviting for the public. I wrote a short review of Rincon Park a few years ago, but today, as I was walking by, I thought the sculpture deserves its own review! The bow and arrow represent love, as Cupid inspires affection. By placing this symbol in a park, the artists wanted to promote feelings of connection among visitors. Its location by the water also suggests that love is a journey, like the voyages of ships from the nearby port. Since opening, Cupid's Span has become a favorite spot in San Francisco. Its fun design reflects the city's unique character and attracts many people for photos and special occasions, including engagement and wedding shoots. Gap Inc. founders Donald and Doris Fisher gave it to the city. The San Francisco Arts Commission worked with the artists to ensure the sculpture fit well with the city's art collection. Because of its large size, installing the sculpture was complex and required careful planning. It arrived in pieces and was put together on-site. Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen are known for their creative work. Cupid's Span is one of their most loved sculptures. If you visit San Francisco, you should see Cupid's Span. Whether you are walking along the Embarcadero, or enjoying the views of the Bay Bridge, the sculpture will impress you.
A very unique public art sculpture located on the Embarcadero Waterfront!! It's Cupid's bow and arrow pointed into the ground, I'm just guessing it's aimed at the center of the earth!! This place is popular for sure, for tourists and locals, people really hang out here for a while. In a very scenic area, this really stands out, especially with whatever backdrop your viewing it from. I like the view with the Bay Bridge behind it the best!!
After our little photo session around Oracle Park, my friend and I strolled past Cupid's Span. We have both passed by this large outdoor art sculpture multiple times in the past, and I walked and took photos of my little pup here previously. Definitely a landmark we both recognized being part of San Francisco. Cupid's Span is a pop art outdoor sculpture opened in November 1, 2002. "Commissioned by Gap Inc. founders Donald and Doris F. Fisher, depicts a partial bow and piece of an arrow." (Wikipedia) Artists are Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, a married couple and they have many other works displayed all over the world of larger than life everyday objects.
Super cute area for great photo op This is a SF landmark Located near The Embarcadero on a patch of grass/hill Nice spot to chill and people watch Street parking only
So my kids have been coming here almost since 2006. It was quite an amazing find, spending time in the city there's not a lot for children to do. My kids would have judo tournaments, we would come here to sightsee, eat and just feel good. Over the years, they've changed the parking in the streets so much. Up until two years ago, there was metered parking right in front were tons of people could park and walk along the Embarcadero. They have removed all of the parking spaces, and turned it into a 2 way bike Ln.. Now there's no way really to access it other than the pitiful few parking spots on the other side of the street. And they are almost always taken. That's about the only reason why it gets four stars, the city does not take into consideration how much the kids enjoy this and now there's no real way for the kids to get to it. Oh well
If you have driven past the Embarcadero, south of the Ferry Building, then you might have seen Cupid's Span, or his bow and arrow. Because the bow and arrow are inverted (pointing into the ground), it looks like a boat or a ship (which does work nicely with the ocean view and Bay Bridge). This beautiful sculpture (free to visit), which has been here since 2002, was created by married artists Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen. They thought it would be a unique interpretation to have the arrow inverted, as if cupid (or Eros) had shot an arrow into the earth to make it fertile. But they had initially thought of having the arrow pointing upright in earlier drafts. My husband, our little girl dog and I came by this beautiful structure on a Friday early last month around 4 pm to meet a friend and their dog. According to my friends (who live in the nearby apartments down the street), this little area (kind of like a park) is really popular with dogs and their owners. While we were there (a little over an hour), we saw numerous of visitors with dogs running around and playing with other dogs on the grass around the bow and arrow sculpture. With the parking situation, it is metered and can be a challenge to find, as it is limited. If you are good at parallel parking then you might want to park much further away and walk.
Perfect place to... 1) Bring a date 2) Play Pokemon Go - lots of dratinis and magikarp here! 3) Enjoy the sunset (or sunrise) 4) View the Bay Bridge Lights 5) Take a jog or a long stroll I've been to Cupid's Span for all of the above reasons, time and time again over the past few years. Cupid's Span and the surrounding area is a hot spot among Pokemon Go fans like myself, perfect for spinning a bunch of pokestops, raiding, and community day. Lots of food is also around the area, so perfect after a long day's worth of Pokemon here. Cupid Span can get pretty crowded with people and dogs alike. Lots of dog owners love coming here to have doggy play dates. I don't have a dog, but I enjoy seeing the dogs frolic with one another. Besides coming here for Pokemon Go, I come here for the amazing bridge views, during sunset. For the BEST views, September and October are the most ideal times coming here because the weather is just perfect - not too cold or hot, and not too foggy. Best way to get here? Public transit. There is parking, but it's limited, and many of the metered parking spots are designated as "Special Parking Zone" which means free parking does not start until 10 pm on some days. Save the hassle and take public transit if you can.
After taking my 3 and 8 year old grandsons on the ferry from Alameda to San Francisco for the first time, we headed toward Cupids Span. It is what is most visible on the skyline with the bright red "feathers" of the arrow standing almost vertical. The kids and I skipped up the pathway to the giant bow and arrow. When we got closer I noticed that there was a low wire surrounding the installation by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen. The 8 year old crawled under the wire first, and then the 3 year old followed. The older brother ran through the grass with younger one following in his big brother's foot steps. Then the big brother started running up the sculpture and sliding down it. "WHEEE" it looked like such fun!!! Both boys started slowly and picked up steam as they got more confidence. The artists created a perfect slide for people of all ages. I didn't go on it myself, but my grandsons had a blast! Tip: if you are coming from Alameda or Oakland and you take the ferry you won't have to worry about parking while visiting this amazing site. Ps. If they didn't want people to slide on the bow, don't you think they would have made it more difficult to get on?
"There is always some madness in love..." - Lestat Location: Embarcadero Waterfront, San Francisco. Cupid's Span aka Cupid's Bow is a 60-foot sculpture inspired by San Francisco's reputation as the home port of Eros. Cupid's Span is an outdoor sculpture by married artists Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, commissioned by The Gap founders, Donald and Doris F. Fisher, as a gift to the city of San Francisco in 2002. Having lived in San Francisco I regret not taking the time to visit such a cool site sooner. The location up a hill, on the Embarcadero waterfront, has added a sense of magic and romance to the skyline of lovely San Francisco. For the romantics, the mythological symbolism of Eros shooting his arrow into the earth to make it fertile. On my visit I had the Commodores playing while I picnicked on a patch of grass. Or maybe I was dancing to Spandau Ballet? So true... In the end, I recommend Cupid's Span for all to see. I mean who can complain on something free to the public and now a part of San Francisco's ever changing skyline. And with all the pheromones floating around still a fun spot for the kiddies too! For me, it brought a smile to my face and that's what it's all about. My gift to you, lovers;)
Located in Rincon Park near the Embarcadero which I go to frequently whenever I'm visiting San Francisco. Built in 2002 but I didn't know if its existence until a recent trip around the city with Alana and Nadine. No one can ever deny that whoever comes for a visit, always leave his/her heart in San Francisco. I do! I am always lovestruck with this beautiful city that I always comeback whenever I get the chance. Cupid must have used his bow and arrow to pin my heart right in this city. I'm glad to be able to see this beautiful art installation. It is strategically located with a view of the Oakland bridge on one side, the magnificent buildings on the other side, and the Ferry Building down the street. Great photo opportunities in every angle.
Calling all competitive Archers- this is the perfect place in San Francisco to get your post shot. Only a true Archer knows how to set up a great shot. Easily viewed from the Bay Bridge. Nice walk on the Embarcadero and an easy walk from Union Square. There's so much to see in San Francisco. What a great city! Never expected to see such a gigantic bow and arrow. Fun picture taking spot check it out. read more
Memorable location of Cupid's Span and the gorgeous SF skyline in the background. Near Rincon Park and on its way to Ferry Building. Hard to miss Cupid's Span. The detail of the sculpture is unique and I wonder how exact the bow is. The 70 foot sculpture doesn't take away from the skyline, its open bow adds to it. read more
Commissioned by the founders of GAP and created by an artist couple, this giant art piece, resembling Cupid's bow and arrow, is right along the Embarcadero and a brief 5-10min walk away from the Ferry building. Residing on a small, grassy hill, there are often local and tourists alike camped out here on nice days enjoying a picnic, relaxing, and snapping up some candid photo shots. And it's not surprising why, considering the beautiful close-up view of the Bay waters and the Bay Bridge. Spanning 60' tall, with an arrow 140' long, you definitely will not miss this large structure as you travel down the Embarcadero either towards the ballpark, or on your way towards Pier 39. read more
I def recommend checking this out especially if you're visiting the Bay Area or live in the Bay Area grab a blanket and have a picnic in the area. The ferry building is about 5-10 min walk away, there's epic steakhouse, a bunch of restaurants close by to come check out during an off day or even just to see the beautiful views of the bridge and come check out the area and see what's new. The reason why I recommend this on a beautiful or foggy day is because the views are always spectacular and you can see Alcatraz and treasure island and as well as the bridge come check this place out! read more
A Symbol of Love in San Francisco Cupid's Span is a sculpture located in Rincon Park along the Embarcadero in San Francisco. Installed in 2002, it was created by married artists Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, who are known for their large public sculptures that turn everyday objects into interesting art. The sculpture looks like a giant bow and arrow, inspired by Cupid, the Roman god of love. The bow is 60 feet tall, and the arrow is 140 feet long. Made of steel and fiberglass, it features bright red and yellow colors that stand out against the city skyline and San Francisco Bay. I work nearby and see this sculpture often. It is a popular spot for photos among locals and tourists. Cupid's Span sits in Rincon Park, a small green area with beautiful views of the Bay Bridge. Many people enjoy spending their lunch breaks here, and it's a great place for picnics, walks, and other outdoor activities. The sculpture was part of a project to enhance the waterfront and make it more inviting for the public. I wrote a short review of Rincon Park a few years ago, but today, as I was walking by, I thought the sculpture deserves its own review! The bow and arrow represent love, as Cupid inspires affection. By placing this symbol in a park, the artists wanted to promote feelings of connection among visitors. Its location by the water also suggests that love is a journey, like the voyages of ships from the nearby port. Since opening, Cupid's Span has become a favorite spot in San Francisco. Its fun design reflects the city's unique character and attracts many people for photos and special occasions, including engagement and wedding shoots. Gap Inc. founders Donald and Doris Fisher gave it to the city. The San Francisco Arts Commission worked with the artists to ensure the sculpture fit well with the city's art collection. Because of its large size, installing the sculpture was complex and required careful planning. It arrived in pieces and was put together on-site. Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen are known for their creative work. Cupid's Span is one of their most loved sculptures. If you visit San Francisco, you should see Cupid's Span. Whether you are walking along the Embarcadero, or enjoying the views of the Bay Bridge, the sculpture will impress you. read more
1 year ago
A very unique public art sculpture located on the Embarcadero Waterfront!! It's Cupid's bow and arrow pointed into the ground, I'm just guessing it's aimed at the center of the earth!! This place is popular for sure, for tourists and locals, people really hang out here for a while. In a very scenic area, this really stands out, especially with whatever backdrop your viewing it from. I like the view with the Bay Bridge behind it the best!! read more
After our little photo session around Oracle Park, my friend and I strolled past Cupid's Span. We have both passed by this large outdoor art sculpture multiple times in the past, and I walked and took photos of my little pup here previously. Definitely a landmark we both recognized being part of San Francisco. Cupid's Span is a pop art outdoor sculpture opened in November 1, 2002. "Commissioned by Gap Inc. founders Donald and Doris F. Fisher, depicts a partial bow and piece of an arrow." (Wikipedia) Artists are Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, a married couple and they have many other works displayed all over the world of larger than life everyday objects. read more
So my kids have been coming here almost since 2006. It was quite an amazing find, spending time in the city there's not a lot for children to do. My kids would have judo tournaments, we would come here to sightsee, eat and just feel good. Over the years, they've changed the parking in the streets so much. Up until two years ago, there was metered parking right in front were tons of people could park and walk along the Embarcadero. They have removed all of the parking spaces, and turned it into a 2 way bike Ln.. Now there's no way really to access it other than the pitiful few parking spots on the other side of the street. And they are almost always taken. That's about the only reason why it gets four stars, the city does not take into consideration how much the kids enjoy this and now there's no real way for the kids to get to it. Oh well read more
If you have driven past the Embarcadero, south of the Ferry Building, then you might have seen Cupid's Span, or his bow and arrow. Because the bow and arrow are inverted (pointing into the ground), it looks like a boat or a ship (which does work nicely with the ocean view and Bay Bridge). This beautiful sculpture (free to visit), which has been here since 2002, was created by married artists Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen. They thought it would be a unique interpretation to have the arrow inverted, as if cupid (or Eros) had shot an arrow into the earth to make it fertile. But they had initially thought of having the arrow pointing upright in earlier drafts. My husband, our little girl dog and I came by this beautiful structure on a Friday early last month around 4 pm to meet a friend and their dog. According to my friends (who live in the nearby apartments down the street), this little area (kind of like a park) is really popular with dogs and their owners. While we were there (a little over an hour), we saw numerous of visitors with dogs running around and playing with other dogs on the grass around the bow and arrow sculpture. With the parking situation, it is metered and can be a challenge to find, as it is limited. If you are good at parallel parking then you might want to park much further away and walk. read more
6 years ago
Perfect place to... 1) Bring a date 2) Play Pokemon Go - lots of dratinis and magikarp here! 3) Enjoy the sunset (or sunrise) 4) View the Bay Bridge Lights 5) Take a jog or a long stroll I've been to Cupid's Span for all of the above reasons, time and time again over the past few years. Cupid's Span and the surrounding area is a hot spot among Pokemon Go fans like myself, perfect for spinning a bunch of pokestops, raiding, and community day. Lots of food is also around the area, so perfect after a long day's worth of Pokemon here. Cupid Span can get pretty crowded with people and dogs alike. Lots of dog owners love coming here to have doggy play dates. I don't have a dog, but I enjoy seeing the dogs frolic with one another. Besides coming here for Pokemon Go, I come here for the amazing bridge views, during sunset. For the BEST views, September and October are the most ideal times coming here because the weather is just perfect - not too cold or hot, and not too foggy. Best way to get here? Public transit. There is parking, but it's limited, and many of the metered parking spots are designated as "Special Parking Zone" which means free parking does not start until 10 pm on some days. Save the hassle and take public transit if you can. read more
After taking my 3 and 8 year old grandsons on the ferry from Alameda to San Francisco for the first time, we headed toward Cupids Span. It is what is most visible on the skyline with the bright red "feathers" of the arrow standing almost vertical. The kids and I skipped up the pathway to the giant bow and arrow. When we got closer I noticed that there was a low wire surrounding the installation by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen. The 8 year old crawled under the wire first, and then the 3 year old followed. The older brother ran through the grass with younger one following in his big brother's foot steps. Then the big brother started running up the sculpture and sliding down it. "WHEEE" it looked like such fun!!! Both boys started slowly and picked up steam as they got more confidence. The artists created a perfect slide for people of all ages. I didn't go on it myself, but my grandsons had a blast! Tip: if you are coming from Alameda or Oakland and you take the ferry you won't have to worry about parking while visiting this amazing site. Ps. If they didn't want people to slide on the bow, don't you think they would have made it more difficult to get on? read more
"There is always some madness in love..." - Lestat Location: Embarcadero Waterfront, San Francisco. Cupid's Span aka Cupid's Bow is a 60-foot sculpture inspired by San Francisco's reputation as the home port of Eros. Cupid's Span is an outdoor sculpture by married artists Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, commissioned by The Gap founders, Donald and Doris F. Fisher, as a gift to the city of San Francisco in 2002. Having lived in San Francisco I regret not taking the time to visit such a cool site sooner. The location up a hill, on the Embarcadero waterfront, has added a sense of magic and romance to the skyline of lovely San Francisco. For the romantics, the mythological symbolism of Eros shooting his arrow into the earth to make it fertile. On my visit I had the Commodores playing while I picnicked on a patch of grass. Or maybe I was dancing to Spandau Ballet? So true... In the end, I recommend Cupid's Span for all to see. I mean who can complain on something free to the public and now a part of San Francisco's ever changing skyline. And with all the pheromones floating around still a fun spot for the kiddies too! For me, it brought a smile to my face and that's what it's all about. My gift to you, lovers;) read more
Located in Rincon Park near the Embarcadero which I go to frequently whenever I'm visiting San Francisco. Built in 2002 but I didn't know if its existence until a recent trip around the city with Alana and Nadine. No one can ever deny that whoever comes for a visit, always leave his/her heart in San Francisco. I do! I am always lovestruck with this beautiful city that I always comeback whenever I get the chance. Cupid must have used his bow and arrow to pin my heart right in this city. I'm glad to be able to see this beautiful art installation. It is strategically located with a view of the Oakland bridge on one side, the magnificent buildings on the other side, and the Ferry Building down the street. Great photo opportunities in every angle. read more
Did you leave your heart in San Francisco?? I knew I wanted to see this when I came to San Francisco! This is such a whimsical piece of art designed by married couple, Claes Oldenburg & Coosje Van Bruggen! I was fortunate enough to view three of their works of art in three cities in a span of three weeks without even realizing it until I looked up their other works! You can find Cupid's Span along Embarcadero, in Rincon Park, just south of the Ferry Building. It was installed in 2002. The Bay Bridge is highly visible in the background. Coosje van Bruggen decided she wanted the front of the bow downward and the feathers of the arrow in the air. I read that the feathers really do move in the wind, how cool! Coosje said it could also be interpreted as a tightened version of a suspension bridge, and that seemed to be perfect for the pair as they continued with their plans. It is huge at roughly 60ft tall! It is definitely visible from afar! This sculpture is listed as one of the 15 Most Beautiful Places To Get Married in SF! Not sure I would choose this place, but I guess others have! It is worth having a look at and taking pictures. I'm glad we could incorporate seeing this in our busy day of sightseeing with my friends! read more
8 years ago
Cupid's Span is a fun location for a quick photo opportunity. I'd advise to go with someone to help you take those fun photos. I tried doing some selfies but couldn't get the right angles or get in the right position to take a fun shot. I looked like a weirdo out there trying to take some photos that didn't turn out to be posting worthy. This gardening around this huge bow & arrow is well maintained. But if you get a bit closer to the bow & arrow itself, it needs a little love. I remember seeing something stuck at the top end of the bow, a balloon I think. And with the "friendly" seagulls, there's massive amounts of poop all over the figure. It does add to the character of the area. A random, huge bow and arrow by the bay shore is pretty interesting. And as I mentioned early, photo worthy for your social media addiction. read more
C entered around romantic nostalgia U nique bow and arrow design P ublic art for us to enjoy I n Rincon Park on the Embarcadero D esigned by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje Van Bruggen S an Francisco is a place where we left our heart S culpture made of fiberglass and steel P ort land A view of the San Francisco Bay, Bay Bridge and beyond. N oteworthy place to celebrate an anniversary #CupidsSpan #SanFrancisco #WeddingAnniversary2016 read more
10 years ago
This is an intriguing landmark in San Francisco. We came upon this place as we were walking along the waterway. It sits on a small grassy hill, with people relaxing around it. It proved to be a good photo, with the buildings in the background and the sun sitting just behind it. This monument was an interesting find also because it was the weekend before Valentine's Day. So anyone looking to make a good statement come next Valentine's Day, check this place out! read more
Another photo opportunity in SF. Beautiful background of the bay bridge. Any social media you might use will love this. This was created in 2002 and it is made of fiberglass and steel. It is located about 5 minutes walking distance from the ferry building. The tour buses drive by it as well, so you can't miss it!! Very popular for wedding/engagement photos. read more
"I left my heart in San Francisco. High on a hill it calls to me... To be where little cable cars climb halfway to the stars! The morning fog may chill the air, I don't care! My love waits there in San Francisco, above the blue and windy sea. When I come home to you, San Francisco, your golden sun will shine for me!" --Tony Bennett This is a very cool sculpture at the Embarcadero! Made of fiberglass and steel, this 60 feet tall structure is about 140 feet wide. Presented in November 2002 by the married team of Swedish sculptors, Claes Oldenburg and Coosje vanBruggen, it is part of an ongoing effort to beautify the City of San Francisco! The artists also have famous pieces in Tokyo, Milan, and Minneapolis. The positioning of the sculpture suggests the shapes of a ship to some people and possibly a suspension bridge to others. It is designed to inspire conversation and stimulate the imagination! The title of this masterpiece is in reference to Eros, the Greek god, also known as the Roman Cupid who shoots arrows into victims. The blunt tipped lead arrows evoked feelings of aversion - the opposite effect of the sharp golden arrows which resulted in strong attraction between the targeted humans. Yes, Cupid is a bit of a rascal! Donated by Donald and Doris Fisher, the founders of Gap Inc., Cupid's Span seems to be in a very appropriate place - especially since Tony Bennett sang, "I Left My Heart In San Francisco"... read more
11 years ago
Massive yet beautiful monument; reflective of love, San Francisco and all its glory. Sits near Pier 1 and offers an amazing view of the Bay, Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman's Wharf area. Indicative of the famous saying "I left my heart in San Francisco." A must see when visiting the beautiful city of SF. read more
I like art. Any art. Or maybe more accurately, anything that is designed to provoke the senses. Toward that end, I think "Cupid's Span", a 2002 sculpture by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, fulfills that purpose. When I first saw the bow and downward-pointed arrow, I immediately thought it was a response to Tony Bennett's "I Left My Heart in San Francisco". I just figured Cupid must be this gargantuan being flying among the Skylab debris out in space trying to shoot arrows at Tony's heart. I don't find it ugly...I just find it amusing much like the Doggie Diner Head out on Sloat. It ain't Michelangelo, but we ain't Florence either. When the sun beats down on it, you can try lying down where the arrow's shadow falls, though you will be moving like a clock hand to keep up with it. Of course, you also have to worry about fecal matter, whether it's canine or otherwise. Apparently it's good enough for young newlyweds since they have their photos taken there, but I wish people would stop treating it like a climbing apparatus. I think it's pretty shameful how thos hooligans climb it for kicks and deserve a few cracked ribs for their impertinence. I still think Chicago has the right idea with their big bean in Millennium Park (http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/2DfcXGtDv7T_rnvl4lHzaQ?select=Tesh_WSkrUQZrl8L8TI6_Q). It's also a big outdoor art sculpture, but it feels more interactive, and the reflections are cool because it makes for fun-house images of the skyline. I just wish future art pieces in San Francisco could take into account the city's beautiful skyline itself as part of the art. In the meantime, I can't help thinking of this song... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X69xQl-xF1k read more
When artists Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen were commissioned to construct an art piece on Rincon Park along Embarcadero in 2002, they couldn't have picked a better pair of artists. If you're not familiar about their work, they typically make giants sculptors out of mundane objects like the Spoonbridge and Cherry http://mspmag.com/getattachment/Out-And-About/Articles/Museums-And-Galleries/The-Cherry-on-Top/0913_cherryontop_p01.jpg.aspx in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Shuttlecocks http://queerty-prodweb.s3.amazonaws.com/wp/docs/2014/10/cocks.jpg in Kansas City, Missouri and Plantoir http://jschumacher.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c339953ef0133f4eb3a6f970b-800wi in Des Moines, Iowa and other various location in Europe, Asia and North America. According to the artists, their inspiration for Cupid's Span was the home port of Eros. I don't know if the first thing that comes to mind is Eros when mentioning San Francisco as that should be Las Vegas, IMHO. I can see if this was The Castro and it would make perfect sense, but I still like the piece, regardless. The first rendition of the sculpture had the arrow pointing towards the sky, but they had structural challenges so they decided to point it downwards and making the feathers as the focal point. The object of an art piece is to evoke an emotion - whether good or bad, it's very subjective and open to interpretation to the individual. You either like it or you don't, and you surely can't please everyone. I happen to like it as it blends quite well and also stands out within the surrounding location. You can also view it from different angles, backgrounds and different perspective at different times and gives you something different every time. I also find it appropriate that it's pointing down towards the heart of San Francisco, where many people have left theirs. read more
13 years ago
Isn't it romantic? The arrow is embedded in San Francisco overlooking the Bay Bridge, Treasure Island and the Easy Bay. It's kind of a romantic city gesture, X marking the spot where Cupid hit and now a little landmark and part of the city. Makes for an excellent stop off on one of my favorite walking trails in San Francisco, the Embarcadero. I love the water and views. read more
Cupid's Span is an adorable landmark in SF. I lived here for quite awhile without ever knowing it existed, but now I get to see it quite often and it never loses its charm. It's located on a little green patch along the Embarcadero, so you can picnic beneath it, sit on the concrete nearby with a view of the water and the bow, or even bring your pooch to play. It makes the skyline prettier - both in the foreground of the Bay Bridge and the city itself, depending on where you're looking at it from. It's also a fun little place to take visitors; everyone I've shown it to absolutely loved it. I'm really glad it's here :-) read more
Did Cupid throw his bow and arrow into the ground because some wicked person broke his heart in San Francisco? Or did he too get hit by one of his love arrows and fall in love and run off with a gorgeous being and no longer needed to carry his bow & arrow? I don't know, but I do know if you are along the Embarcadero you should go see Cupids Span! I love finding outdoor art sculptures. Cupids Span is a 60ft sculpture that was commissioned by GAP founders Donald & Doris Fisher and created by Claes Oldenburg & Coosje van Bruggen and is in Rincon Park along the Embarcadero. It's kind of hard not to miss. Both sides of Cupids Span offers get views, either the bay bridge or the city view. Check out it, take some pics, and speculate why Cupid doesn't need his bow and arrow anymore haha. Another fun find in the city! read more
11 years ago
Beautiful views of the bay! My friends and I were lucky it was a bright and sunny day when we visited Cupid's Span. Thanks to fellow Yelper Giovanna R.'s photos from last week, I was determined to make this the first stop in SF when celebrating a friend's birthday. When we arrived, some kids had climbed up the bottom half of the bow (quite a feat, I probably wouldn't be able to do that) but luckily, their parents convinced them to go before we started taking photos. This place is great for taking wedding party photos, as we saw one having a photo shoot, thankfully after capturing our own selfie stick powered shots haha. Bring your selfie stick! We saw others with them too so don't get discouraged. The whole bay is visible and there aren't too many tourists if you get there by noon. I went on a Saturday and the area wasn't as crowded as I thought. Some go jogging, walk their dogs, take photos, etc. Bring the family and some friends! It's really a refreshing change compared to the usual Pier 39 where you'll get sucked into pricey tourist traps. We walked down toward Pier 39 and along the way we passed by the Ferry Marketplace with a Farmer's Market! You can't miss the white tents! There's metered parking along the Embarcadero. Try to get there early for a close spot. Artwork and bay views that take your breath away. I'll be back with family in tow. read more
8 years ago
9 years ago
I've been to the city so many times and even lived 30 minutes away from SF years ago! But everytime I come to SF there is always something new and beautiful to see! SF always seems to amaze me! Cupid's Span has been one of my "need to go" to list and Im glad I was able to see it! It surely is humongous so you wont miss it! Its located on Rincon Park on Embarcadero close to the Pier. Definitely a great place for photo ops with your love one. It also has a place where you can sit and have a picnic and just stroll around the area. As for parking we got lucky that we found a metered spot right in front of it. As you know its always hard to find parking in the city so you may have to walk a few blocks to get to the park! Definitely a must see when you are in town!! read more
To me, this is the coolest symbol of love from the artists to the city of San Francisco. I just my walking there during lunch time, just observing people while lying on the grass. I also like to bring my sketchbooks and colors and get inspired. I don't see the dislike of this beautiful sculpture, is fun, is colorful, is very San Franciscan. And yes, I am so tempted to climb it as many of you! read more
It's a sculpture of a giant bow and arrow that's stuck in the ground. For those of you who don't appreciate art, it might sound boring but it's not. It's a cool sculpture and if you're visiting from out of town, you should come and check it out. You can also get some great photos of the Bay Bridge here. read more
Kool spot for photography! Just take note of the time of day and lighting. Parking limited to street meters. It's a 2 lane, one way in this area so if you find a parking spot, take it asap but watch out for the bikers and pedestrians! read more
12 years ago
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More info about Cupid's Span
Rincon Park
San Francisco, CA 94107
Embarcadero, SoMa
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(415) 831-2700
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