Aug 012011
SOMA – San Francisco
260 Fifth Street at Clementina
This sign is an anathema to me for several reasons. While hard to read, it states that this building will be demolished and a 9 story building will be put up in its place. Although not highly ornamented, it does have some lovely features. When I see old buildings with history like this arbitrarily being tossed by the wayside so that a non-descript highrise can be built, it makes my blood boil.
The unique architecture of any city is what makes it stand out, the more that we have nondescript, inexpensive highrises built around the world, our cities begin to more and more look like each other and we loose our reason to be tourists in other lands.
The other problem is this.
This mural is painted on the side of the building. It was painted in 1986 by David Wehrle. In San Francisco, the law requires that the original artist of any mural that is about to be destroyed must be notified. Apparently Mr. Wherle and the SF Arts Commission found no significant reason that the mural should remain, so it will be destroyed during the demolition. So here are the photos of the entire thing before that happens.
Update: This building was torn down July of 2012. This picture was taken on July 7th, 2012
I totally agree with yoy Princepessa — a sad story that is all too common. Do think they pay the artist something?
Oh my gosh, AMAZING art work! What a shame this will be destroyed!!!!! Very sad that history will be lost.
I so agree with you! The character of an old building cannot be replaced easily, if at all, but especially with this amazing mural! What a loss it will be.
Oh, you make me want to cry. I respect the old and do not want any of it destroyed…preservation is a major word in my vocabulary. Thanks so much for sharing the pictures of the building and its interesting architecture, the mural, and the story. It is these kind of post that really make me think about our country and where the values are of the people who govern…neeedless to say, I am also referring to these last few week.S. Nice post. Genie
I could not agree with you more. There is so much character in these old structures, if one would just take the time to see it.
Thank you so much for sharing these today at The Creative Exchange.
Have a wonderful evening!
lisa.
Very sad indeed. Imagine how much work and love went into that mural.
I hate to see the old buildings, built when there was great pride in workmanship, torn down and replaced with new highrises. And for that mural to be destroyed seems shameful.