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45-ft Statue of Giant Naked Woman Now Coming to SF’s Embarcadero

A Burning Man sculpture that “breathes” scrapped for Union Square, now penned for the Embarcadero
By - posted 3/7/2025 No Comment

Thanks to San Francisco Examiner for sharing the details that San Francisco’s Embarcadero Plaza will soon be home to “R-Evolution,” a 45-foot-tall sculpture by Marco Cochrane that was originally planned for Union Square. City officials relocated the installation after concerns that its weight could damage Union Square’s granite tiles.

A Monument to Strength and Movement

“R-Evolution” is part of Cochrane’s triptych honoring female empowerment and was first displayed at Burning Man in 2015. The towering steel structure features geodesic panels and stainless steel mesh, with movable components and LED lighting designed to simulate breathing. The sculpture weighs 16,000 pounds, with an additional 16,000 pounds of steel anchoring plates.

Why the Move?

The sculpture was initially set for Union Square, where officials hoped it would help revitalize the area following economic downturns. However, just days before its scheduled assembly, concerns arose about potential damage to the plaza’s tiles and underground garage structure, prompting a search for a new location. After further engineering reviews, the San Francisco Arts Commission and the Recreation and Park Department approved Embarcadero Plaza as the new site.

Opening Event and Community Involvement

A public unveiling event is expected to accompany the installation. While details are still being finalized, event organizers plan to include local artists in the celebration, particularly those who typically sell their wares in the plaza. The sculpture will be installed for at least six months, with the possibility of an extension.

With its prominent location near the Ferry Building, R-Evolution is poised to become a new focal point along the Embarcadero, drawing visitors and helping breathe new life into San Francisco’s downtown arts scene.

Related Article: 45-ft Statue of Giant Naked Woman Coming to Union Square 1/9/2025