One Man, Over 170,000 Toothpicks, And 50 Years: Amazing Kinetic Sculpture Of San Francisco

Scott Weaver, a San Francisco-based artist, dedicated decades to creating “Rolling Through the Bay,” an intricate sculpture made from toothpicks.. This kinetic artwork intricately depicts various landmarks of San Francisco, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street, and the Transamerica Pyramid. What sets it apart is its interactive nature: Weaver designed multiple pathways that guide ping-pong balls through the sculpture, simulating a tour of the city..

kinetic toothpick sculpture

Scott The most surprising fact about this masterpiece? Weaver is still continuing to expand it!

He began the sculpture in 1974 and, by 2011, had dedicated 37 years to its creation. Over the years, he’s continued to refine and expand it. By 2023, he had worked on it for 49 years, using over 170,000 toothpicks and logging more than 6,400 hours.

kinetic toothpick sculpture

Weaver began this labor of love in 1974, continuously adding to and refining the piece over the decades. He sourced toothpicks from various places, including friends, family, and even from his own wedding, where guests threw toothpicks instead of rice. The sculpture not only showcases his dedication and artistic skill but also serves as a personal tribute to his hometown. 

kinetic toothpick sculpture

“Rolling Through the Bay” has been displayed at various venues, including San Francisco’s Exploratorium, where it has captivated audiences with its complexity and the story behind its creation

kinetic toothpick sculpture
kinetic toothpick sculpture
kinetic toothpick sculpture
kinetic toothpick sculpture

2024 update

As of December 2024, Scott Weaver’s remarkable toothpick sculpture, “Rolling Through the Bay,” celebrated its 50th anniversary. Weaver began this intricate project in 1974 and has continued to expand and refine it over the decades. The sculpture, which meticulously depicts various San Francisco landmarks, remains on display at the Exploratorium in San Francisco