de Young Museum, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco
My friend Elliot suggested that we meet near the Andy Goldsworthy (Yorkshire artist) sculpture. A series of large stone blocks connected by cracks suggesting fault lines .. as if one needed to be reminded that this is earthquake country. Actually an impressive work and the technical part of it must have been challenging.
We were lucky to have a guided tour (we were the only takers ... there being no big special exhibition, it was quiet). Our enthusiastic knowledgeable guide took us through the Meso American collection (American Indians, Mexico, Central America and Peru). It included ceramics from the Olmec civilisation (Veracruz area of Mexico, 6th Cent B.C.) the building is an exciting space and was designed by Herzog and de Meuron, the same architects who designed Tate Modern in London. There is a tower with 360 degree views over the park and city.
To link to the Photo Gallery, click here for the museum and/or click here for the Goldsworthy sculpture.
The fine print
Date of visit : 18 OCtober 2008
More information on the de Young Museum - click here