FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:
Kate Patterson, San Francisco Arts Commission
Tel: 415/252-4638 Email: kate.patterson@sfgov.org

NEW PUBLIC ART BRINGS FANTASY AND WONDER TO THE NEWLY-RENOVATED SUNNYSIDE CONSERVATORY

The Arts Commission will unveil 23 new sculptures by Bay Area artist team Wowhaus at the Conservatory’s Grand Reopening celebration on
December 5 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Ribbon-cutting at 12:00 noon

SAN FRANCISCO, December 2, 2009 – Director of Cultural Affairs for the San Francisco Arts Commission (SFAC) Luis R. Cancel is pleased to announce the installation of Sunnyside Menagerie, a family of 23 fantastical bronze creatures designed by the artist team of Wowhaus. Commissioned by the SFAC’s Public Art Program specifically for the 1898 Sunnyside Conservatory and Gardens, the suite of sculptures was inspired by the Victorian notion of a conservatory as a living cabinet of curiosities filled with rare flora and fauna that hint at the possibility of still unknown worlds. The textured artworks, which include five unique hybrid species, are nestled at various locations along the walkways and in the garden and are meant to be discovered and handled by visitors of all ages as they wander the grounds.

“Wowhaus’ playful sculptures tap into our imagination and bring a sense of magic and wonder to the Sunnyside Conservatory and Gardens,” stated Luis R. Cancel. “Visitors will have a wonderful time discovering these inventive creatures as they explore the landscape and encounter them tucked into unexpected places.”

Mayor Gavin Newsom, Project Manager Judy Moran and artist Ene Osteraas-Constable. Photo by Bill Wilson.

Cast from hand-built clay forms by Wowhaus artists Scott Constable and Ene Osteraas-Constable, the Sunnyside Menagerie sculptures include three figures reminiscent of lizards; a pair of penguin-like animals, located near the Conservatory building; three “trilogators” and fourteen small-scale flat glyphies, or low-relief sculptures. There is also a possumbat (opossum + bat) that hangs above the doorway located at the back of the Conservatory. The three lizard creatures can be played like a musical instrument by running a stick back and forth along their ridged backs.

According to Ene Osteraas-Constable, “At its core, our work explores how objects, places and relationships acquire meaning in daily life. Our work, including these sculptures, invites ongoing public participation. We were honored to contribute to this inspiring site, which is so beloved by the community.”

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