Artist: Beniamino Bufano
Year: 1975-80
Dates: b. Oct. 15, 1890, Sen Fele, Italy  d. Aug. 18, 1970, California
Materials: Concrete with Marble and Granite Chips
Dimensions: 5′ x 3′ x 3′

About Mother Bear and Cubs

Beniamino Bufano, renowned San Francisco artist, created work out of his dedication to humanity and his belief in rendering truth and integrity in the simplest manner. He strived for simplicity through ceaseless observation and vigilant discipline. He created work with the direct intention of giving it to the public, and in doing so, have the sculpture function in daily life. His intentions strongly uphold the belief of the Museum of Outdoor Arts in “making art a part of everyday life.” The Bufano family cast this sculpture after the artist’s death.

Bufano was one of California’s foremost sculptors, and created several thousand works of art. He moved from Italy to New York in 1918 and traveled extensively throughout the United States until he settled in San Francisco in 1953. He enjoyed testing and combining materials like granite, marble, steel, bronze, and cement to create works that are completely original and unique.