Leave a Message

Thank you for your message. We will be in touch with you shortly.

San Francisco Hearts—A brief history and breakdown of the famous statues

San Francisco Hearts—A brief history and breakdown of the famous statues
San Franciso is sprawling with landmarks and recognizable monuments. From the Golden Gate Bridge to the famous Wharf, San Francisco’s history is as remarkable as it is appealing.
 
Nestled along the sidewalks, in banks, and streets you will undoubtedly encounter the notorious Heart statutes. With Hearts beating sporadically all across this great city, the large installations are as mysterious as they are stunning.
 
Here is a brief history of the well-known Heart installations and what they stand for:
 
 

The Hearts’ Purpose

 
The Heart of San Francisco stand autonomously. They are sprawled throughout the city and capture the awe of passersby alike. They first appeared in 2004 as the brainchild of the San Francisco General Hospital Foundation.
 
The Hearts were inspired by “I Left My Heart in San Francisco”, a classic by the renowned singer Tony Bennett. The hospital devised the plan to showcase the talent of local artists and to create a positive social impact.
 
The Heart statues’ purpose was to raising money for the hospital by artistic contributions from some of the most famous artists on the planet. Although those days have passed, the Hearts stand united and provide visitors with the following reminders to practice:
 
  • kindness
  • the act of giving
  • unity
Each year, new local artists receive an invite to paint their own Heart to be showcased in the city the same year. At the end of the year, each Heart is auctioned off and the proceeds go directly to the associated hospital.
 

The Artists’ Murals

 
The coveted Hearts statues draw onlookers from near and far. Artists execute their innermost creative vision onto the statues for all to see.
 
The artists create a wide array of styles that include compilations of polaroids photographs, mosaics, abstract art, and even portraits of San Fran’s famous wild parrots. The artists convey emotions through their works to garner as much money to raise funds for the hospital—and it pays off every time.
 
 

Heroes and Hearts

 
Each year, a fundraiser luncheon is held for the foundation Heroes and Hearts. Since 2006, the luncheon paved the way to discuss the placement of new Hearts, honor the local heroes who contribute to the city, and pay homage to the brilliant artists who make it all possible.
 
The Hearts have become a tradition in lining the city streets and are now aligned with the city’s own history. The project has since raised millions of dollars and promoted the works of up-and-coming artists. Many artists launched their career from being selected to paint one of the famous Hearts!
 
Heroes and Hearts first started in a small tent in Union Square. Now, it sells out with over 1,000 spectators and contributors each year. The funds raised have helped the hospital and their wonderful patients immensely. The funds have contributed toward:
 
  • essential modernization and upgrades
  • hospital grants
  • improving overall patient care

The Heartbeat of the City

 
 
The glorious hearts, beating since 2004, have earned over $27 million in the last several years alone from the auctions. The hospital’s upkeep is well-maintained, thus earning it one of the top spots of best hospitals in the country.
 
Over 350 art Hearts have been auctioned off in the past years. Organizers have compared the Hearts to Chicago’s annual “Cows on Parade” installations that feature cows. Other installations feature moose, cows, fish, and more across the nation—but San Francisco is held in the highest regard with the Hearts with the Heartbeat that can be heard across the world.
 
 

Auction Options

 
If you are interested in bidding on a Heart at the annual auction, you have several ways to place your offer. You can participate in person at Oracle Park or place your bid at the eventual auction on eBay. Learn more at www.heartsinsf.org
Contributions will continue to go to the local hospital proceeds to keep it modern and utilizing the best, most advanced technology available today. These installations are one of the best ways to give back to the city—and keep San Francisco’s heart beating.
 
Ask your local real estate agents any questions you may have about San Francisco and its beautiful, rich culture. They are well-versed in San Francisco’s statistics and history.

Recent Blog Posts

Real Estate

Polaris Realty: November 2022 Newsletter

November 15, 2022

Whether you’re buying or selling, we want to make sure you have the best, most pertinent information, so we’ve put together this monthly analysis breaking down specifi… Read more

Holiday Happenings in the Bay Area 2022

November 11, 2022

It is finally that time of year again—the holidays are officially here! In just a few short weeks, Thanksgiving will be at our doorsteps, kicking off the coveted seaso… Read more

Edwardian House Styles—and how to get the look in your home!

Ron Abta  |  November 8, 2022

San Francisco is notorious for its unique architectural styles that have been duplicated across the world. A style of home that is prevalent in San Francisco yet does … Read more

Top Fall Events 2022 in San Francisco Bay Area

September 29, 2022

Fall is officially here! Break out the autumn décor, Halloween decorations, and hot apple cider. Some fan favorites of the season include: Hayrides Apple and pumpkin p… Read more

Polaris Realty: October Market Updates

September 27, 2022

The Big Story Housing market recession? Depends on who you ask. Quick Take: Home prices fell for the first time this year, declining 2.4% month-over-month, according t… Read more

Polaris Realty: September Market Updates

August 23, 2022

Natural Hazard Report

August 23, 2022

Real Estate

The Best Bay Area Beaches You MUST Visit This Summer

July 29, 2022

Real Estate

Easy Ways to Decorate Your Home in Mid-Century Style

July 29, 2022

Let's Talk

You’ve got questions and we can’t wait to answer them.

Follow Us on Instagram