Goldsworthy's 'Spire' at The Presidio of San Francisco: Photo, Alice Joyce
A U.S. National Historic Landmark, taking in some 1500 acres of beaches and woodlands, open parkland, destination restaurants, a restored tidal marshland and breathtaking views from any number of vantage points, The Presidio of San Francisco currently features a site-specific sculpture by artist Andy Goldsworthy.
Golden Gate Bridge & Marin Headlands - Photo: Alice Joyce
Located near the Arguello Gate, west of Inspiration Point Overlook, Goldsworthy’s The Spire emerges in a clearing, where the park’s reforestation efforts are ongoing. In this section by the Bay Ridge Trail, 150 dying trees have been removed. In 2008, the artist used felled mature trees to create the sculpture’s monolithic form. A quote from The Presidio web site offers insight into the artwork’s inspiration.
The Spire by Andy Goldsworthy at The Presidio of San Francisco (photo: Alice Joyce)
“The Spire tells the story of the forest, celebrates its history and natural rhythms, and welcomes the next generation of trees. It is a poetic reference to the forest’s past; as new young trees grow up to meet the sculpture, it will eventually disappear into the forest.” The forest we see today hearkens back to the 1880s, with pine and cypress trees primarily; a thriving natural habitat for wildlife. The reforestation goes hand-in-hand with restoration work on cliff side dunes, native plantings, and rare serpentine plant habitats. Check the calendar of events before visiting for tour and program information.
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