Wild Poppies in the Twilight Rain

Headquartered in the City of South San Francisco, Genentech, and the city have enjoyed an enduring and valued relationship since the renowned biotechnology company’s founding in 1976.

In support of philanthropic ventures, Genentech has made significant donations to the San Francisco General Hospital Foundation’s “Heroes and Hearts” event. This annual fundraiser engages local artists whom, if selected, paint one heart. The event raises financial support and awareness for the Foundation, which is dedicated to promoting excellence in research, education and care for all at the San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center. One of the first Genentech-sponsored hearts, “Wild Poppies in the Twilight Rain” was originally installed in their South San Francisco campus. The heart was also later displayed at San Francisco’s Union Square for several months during 2014.

 In appreciation and recognition of Genentech's relationship with the City, in November of 2014 Genentech offered to donate the sculpture to the City of South San Francisco. The award-winning, full-service conference and convention venue, the SSF Conference Center, was selected as the site for the installation of the heart-shaped icon. In 2015, the sculpture was dedicated and added to the City’s public art collection.

The vivid cobalt blue sculpture was created by South Bay artist, Shannon Amidon. Intrigued by objects found in nature or her travels, her work explores the beautiful and mysterious sides of natural history. A mixed media artist of local and national reputation, her heart-shaped creation was inspired by the cyanotype photographic process. She created a faux cyanotype of wild California Poppies. She wanted to create a piece that represented California as well as her love of alternative process photography.

Location

South San Francisco Conference Center, 255 South Airport Blvd, South San Francisco 94080  View Map