Eclipse

What to know

Eclipse is a monumental work of public art located at the Embarcadero Center. Created by the artist Perry, the sculpture takes the form of a 40-foot-high geodesic sphere. This massive structure is meticulously composed of 1,400 pieces of curved metal tubing, which are joined together to form a series of pentagons. The entire sphere is held aloft and supported by three structural points. The sculpture serves as a focal point for the arts and gardens area of the Embarcadero Center. Its complex geometry and industrial materials create a contrast with the surrounding urban landscape of San Francisco. Visitors can observe the intricate way the metal tubing interlocks to create a perfectly rounded, celestial shape. While the sculpture itself is a permanent fixture, the surrounding area often hosts scientific and celestial events. For instance, the nearby Exploratorium at Pier 15 frequently engages the public in astronomy, such as when they hosted an eclipse viewing party on April 8, 2024, featuring live telescope images from Texas and Mexico. This intersection of art and science is a hallmark of the neighborhood. From the geometric precision of Perry's sphere to the interactive science exhibits at the Exploratorium, the area encourages visitors to explore human perception and the laws of physics through visual and tactile experiences.

Visitor tips

• Walk around the entire base of the sphere to see how the 1,400 metal pieces interlock.
• Visit during the day to see how sunlight creates shifting shadows through the geodesic frame.
• Combine this stop with a visit to the nearby Ferry Building Marketplace for a complete waterfront experience.

Nearby context

Eclipse is situated within the Embarcadero Center, placing it in the heart of the Port of San Francisco Embarcadero Historic District. It is located just a short walk from the Ferry Building Marketplace and the science-focused Exploratorium at Pier 15.