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Port Commission hears proposal for Flaming Lotus Girls 'Soma' temporary sculpture at Pier 14
Summary
The Port Commission received a presentation from the Flaming Lotus Girls for 'Soma,' a 35‑foot stainless steel, LED‑lit temporary sculpture proposed for Pier 14 Plaza; staff noted permits, ADA compliance, structural certification and a BCDC limit of 24 months per installation.
Port staff presented a proposed temporary public art installation for Pier 14 Plaza and representatives of the Flaming Lotus Girls described their sculpture 'Soma' and answered commissioners’ questions about safety, lighting and partnerships.
Planner Kania Dorland described the location (Pier 14 Plaza, Embarcadero at Mission Street) and the permitting requirements, including a port license, encroachment permit and compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines. Caroline Miller and members of the Flaming Lotus Girls said Soma is a 35‑foot stainless steel sculpture with interactive LED lighting, structural anchoring designed by a licensed structural engineer, tamper‑proof fasteners, daily inspections, and a 24‑ to 48‑hour response plan for issues.
On partnerships and programming, the group said they will work with UCSF and the Gladstone Institute to create informational displays about neuroscience and that they have coordinated with other lighting projects (the Bay Lights) to avoid interference. Commissioners asked whether the lights would be on all night; staff said the Bay Lights are not on all night as a good‑neighbor policy and that Flaming Lotus Girls would coordinate schedules accordingly. Staff also noted the BCDC regulation allows a temporary public art piece at the location for up to 24 months and the installation is exempt from CEQA as a temporary minor land improvement.
There were no formal votes required on this informational presentation; commissioners expressed strong support and interest in future coordination with the Exploratorium and other institutions.
