Zhang Huan's "Three Heads, Six Arms" in San Francisco May 12, 2010

The San Francisco Arts Commission presents a major artwork by celebrated Chinese artist Zhang Huan. Zhang’s colossal Three Heads Six Arms (2008) will make its world premiere as the focal point of Joseph L. Alioto Performing Arts Piazza, which is located in the heart of San Francisco’s Civic Center, across from City Hall. Standing over 26 feet tall and weighing almost 15 tons, the copper sculpture is the artist’s largest work to date. Three Heads Six Arms is part of an important series of monumental works depicting the arms, legs, feet, hands and heads of Buddhist deities. The series was inspired by the artist’s experience seeing remnants of religious sculptures that had been destroyed during the Cultural Revolution for sale in a Tibetan market. Zhang, who is based in Shanghai, is widely regarded as one of the most influential and provocative contemporary artists working today. Three Heads Six Arms, courtesy of the artist and Pace Gallery, New York, will be on loan through 2011.