Mission in The City: San Francisco de Asís
Known affectionately to locals as Mission Dolores, Mission in The City captures Mission San Francisco de Asís as an enduring beacon of light standing resilient through centuries of San Francisco history.
"The mission survived through each of these historical trials to stand today as a beacon of light for all who live in 'The City,' and that’s what I wanted to achieve in this painting," artist Howard shares.
Key Details & Cultural Landmarks:
A Witness to History: Having weathered the Gold Rush, the 1906 earthquake and fire, the Great Depression, and 1960s war protests, the historic mission stands proudly alongside the adjacent, grander Basilica of San Francisco.
Urban & Natural Harmony: Set within San Francisco’s vibrant Mission District, the painting features neighborhood housing styles framed by native California trees, rolling hills, and signature San Francisco fog.
A Symbol of Inclusivity: Painted in the mid-1990s, a subtle rainbow spans the sky as a tribute to San Francisco's LGBTQ+ community.
Sacred Grounds & Personal Cameos: The historic wall conceals burial grounds honoring 5,000 Indigenous peoples and founding families. In the lower-left corner, Howard painted himself alongside his high school best friend walking past a classic 1906 El Camino Real bell marker.
Mission in The City: San Francisco de Asís
Known affectionately to locals as Mission Dolores, Mission in The City captures Mission San Francisco de Asís as an enduring beacon of light standing resilient through centuries of San Francisco history.
"The mission survived through each of these historical trials to stand today as a beacon of light for all who live in 'The City,' and that’s what I wanted to achieve in this painting," artist Howard shares.
Key Details & Cultural Landmarks:
A Witness to History: Having weathered the Gold Rush, the 1906 earthquake and fire, the Great Depression, and 1960s war protests, the historic mission stands proudly alongside the adjacent, grander Basilica of San Francisco.
Urban & Natural Harmony: Set within San Francisco’s vibrant Mission District, the painting features neighborhood housing styles framed by native California trees, rolling hills, and signature San Francisco fog.
A Symbol of Inclusivity: Painted in the mid-1990s, a subtle rainbow spans the sky as a tribute to San Francisco's LGBTQ+ community.
Sacred Grounds & Personal Cameos: The historic wall conceals burial grounds honoring 5,000 Indigenous peoples and founding families. In the lower-left corner, Howard painted himself alongside his high school best friend walking past a classic 1906 El Camino Real bell marker.
