San Francisco’s legendary Fairmont Hotel has recently become the permanent home for Tony Bennett’s iconic heart sculpture. This sculpture holds a special place in the hearts of residents and visitors alike, as it represents Bennett’s deep connection to the city where he famously left his heart. With its placement in the hotel lobby, the sculpture serves as a testament to the enduring bond between Tony Bennett and the Fairmont Hotel.
The connection between Tony Bennett and the Fairmont Hotel goes beyond mere coincidence. It was within the hotel’s Venetian Room that Bennett first captivated audiences with his rendition of I Left My Heart in San Francisco, the iconic song that would forever become linked to the city. Michelle Heston, spokesperson for the Fairmont Hotel, expressed the hotel’s gratitude, stating, How fortunate are we that the heart he painted gets a permanent home in the Fairmont San Francisco.
The heart sculpture itself is a magnificent piece of art, measuring a striking six-by-five feet. In 2004, Bennett personally painted the Golden Gate Bridge on this monumental heart, which was one of the first hearts auctioned to raise funds for the San Francisco General Hospital Foundation. Pam Baer, one of the founders of the Hearts in San Francisco fundraising gala, highlighted Bennett’s love for the city and his commitment to making a difference. She shared, He was an advocate for the vulnerable, and he said if I can paint a heart and it can be permanently left in San Francisco, I’ll do it for you.
For years, Tony Bennett’s heart sculpture stood proudly in Union Square, captivating the attention of countless individuals looking for the perfect photo opportunity. However, it has now found a new home in the Fairmont Hotel, where it can be admired by guests from around the world. As the APEC Summit approaches, rumors suggest that President Joe Biden may be staying at the Fairmont Hotel and could have the chance to view the sculpture firsthand. Michelle Heston expressed her hopes, saying, I hope we have an opportunity to showcase that.
Kim Meredith, the CEO of the San Francisco General Hospital Foundation, emphasized the significance of moving Bennett’s heart sculpture to the Fairmont Hotel. That heart has been out there all these years, but now we’re moving it here to honor Tony Bennett, she said. With Tony Bennett’s statue already located outside the hotel, the addition of his heart sculpture inside solidifies his profound love for the city of San Francisco.
The placement of Tony Bennett’s heart sculpture in the Fairmont Hotel serves not only as a tribute to the late entertainer but also as a symbol of the city’s enduring spirit. Its presence represents the connection between art, music, and the heart of San Francisco. Visitors and locals alike can now admire this remarkable piece of art, tracing the footsteps of Tony Bennett and embracing the love he had for this remarkable city.
