Visitors to Art Basel Miami Beach may have noticed the white construction fence outside the Raleigh hotel, advertising its renovation and return in 2026. Few real estate developers can claim the single name “Cher,” but Michael Shvo is one of them.
In 2020, Shvo invested $1 billion in renovations of San Francisco’s Transamerica Pyramid, which opened last September. The improvements, led by Foster + Partners, modified William Pereira’s original design. The renovation, in classic Shvo style, incorporates artistic elements in Pyramid Arts, a program that rotates twice a year and debuts with “Les Lalanne at the Transamerica Pyramid Center,” an exhibition dedicated to Claude Works by Claude Lalanne and François-Xavier Lalanne.
We spoke with Shvo, an art collector, to learn more about the exhibition and his plans for Pan Am and its arts programming.
How did you become interested in the art world? When did you first get involved in this field?
I started collecting art in my early thirties. My first collection was a Takashi Murakami print I purchased at a Phillips auction in the early 2000s for about $8,000. That first purchase ignited my passion for art collecting and led me to explore galleries and auctions more deeply.
Subsequent acquisitions included paintings by Gene Davis and sculptures by Harry Bertoia. Over time, our collection has grown to include works by artists such as Andy Warhol, Tom Wesselman, and François-Xavier Larrain. Each piece resonates with me – I believe art should be beautiful, evoke connection and bring joy.
Tell me about the Pyramid Art Project – how was the idea conceived? Why is Transamerica uniquely suited for this type of project?
When I visited San Francisco in 1979, I saw the Transamerica Pyramid for the first time and drew pictures of the building, dreaming that I would one day return here. Forty years later, I am a proud custodian of this iconic building. This story inspired one of our exhibitions, “Pyramid Dreams.”
See also: New Wave Art Wknd Is Palm Beach’s Answer to Miami Art Week
Pyramid Art is a new series of public art installations celebrating innovation and creativity through art and architecture. Our first two exhibitions, curated by Lord Norman Foster, run until 28 January 2025: ‘Vertical Cities’, a selection of Foster’s architectural achievements in skyscrapers, and ‘Les Lalanne’, a commemoration Outdoor exhibition of the works of Claude and François – Xavier.
Our vision for the program is to celebrate artists who were ahead of their time, much like the Transamerica Pyramid. For decades, the Pyramid has represented the spirit and resilience of San Francisco, and we sought to curate an art project that reflected the bold, innovative, and creative legacy of this iconic landmark.
As part of this programme, you worked closely with Lord Norman Foster to organize the first outdoor exhibition of Les Lalanne in San Francisco. Tell me more about this collaboration and how the exhibition came to life.
The first outdoor exhibition of Les Lalanne in San Francisco, in collaboration with Lord Norman Foster, is a harmonious fusion of art and architecture. Our shared vision is to reimagine the Transamerica Pyramid Center as a cultural landmark that integrates public art into the urban environment.
The exhibition, organized in conjunction with Kasmin Gallery, features over twenty major works by Les Lalanne. Their whimsical sculptures, inspired by flora and fauna, are carefully placed in the newly revitalized redwood park, creating a captivating dialogue between nature and art.
You have also collaborated with Les Lalanne on other large-scale installations. What is it about their work that resonates so deeply with you? Were you close to them before their death?
Les Lalanne’s work holds a special place in my heart because it embodies a unique blend of whimsy, elegance and timelessness. Their ability to transform everyday subjects into captivating sculptures resonates with my own philosophy of bringing beauty and meaning to a space through art or design. Each work sparks curiosity and interaction, blurring the lines between art and life.
I was lucky enough to get to know Claude Lalanne personally, a connection that deepened my admiration and love for their artistry. Spending time with her helped me understand the thoughtfulness and joy this couple puts into their creations. Their work is not just art, it is an experience that transcends time and trends, which is why it has always been at the core of our collection and at the heart of my vision for installations like the Transamerica Pyramid.
Every time I curate an exhibition using their work, I feel a responsibility to honor their legacy while sharing the magic of their creations with a wider audience. Their work is a celebration of imagination and I hope to carry this spirit forward in all my projects.
How do you think the Pyramid Art Project will contribute to San Francisco’s broader cultural landscape?
We invested heavily in the restoration of the Transamerica Pyramid Center because we truly believe in the city and its revitalization. I believe the Pyramid Art Project is critical to redefining the cultural heartbeat of San Francisco. The city is renowned for its rich artistic heritage and innovative spirit, and we aim to amplify this by transforming the Pyramid into a cultural landmark where art, architecture and community meet.
The renovation, particularly the revitalization of Redwood Park, seamlessly blends nature with urban life, providing a unique venue for public art installations. By curating exhibitions and events that celebrate creativity and innovation, we aim to create a space where locals and visitors can meaningfully connect with art.
Among other things, the program will draw attention to world-class artists and create opportunities for dialogue and engagement, contributing to the city’s status as a global center for art, culture and ideas. Ultimately, I see the Pyramid Art Project as a catalyst for cultural enrichment, making art accessible to everyone and inspiring communities to explore new possibilities.
Of all the works by Les Lalanne, do you have a personal favorite? It doesn’t have to be something you own or curate.
It’s hard to choose a favorite piece from Les Lalanne’s incredible body of work because their creations are so diverse and imaginative. However, if I had to choose, I would say singh avisai It has a special place for me.
François Xavier’s animal sculptures often feature humor and wisdom. singh avisaiJust a perfect example. It has a meditative presence that feels both playful and profound. also Lane Mouton. François-Xavier’s work is perhaps one of their most famousMouton— the sheep sculpture — embodies the playful yet practical spirit of the Laland family. These sculptures transform any space into a pastoral dream and they remain the centerpiece of our collections and exhibitions.
Both pieces reflect the essence of why we are so fascinated by Les Lalanne: they are not just beautiful objects; They evoke emotion, stimulate curiosity and invite interaction. Whether as a collector, curator or admirer, their work continues to inspire me to think beyond conventional thinking and embrace the unexpected. Each piece tells its own story while inviting the viewer to create their own interpretation.
Can you tell us what’s next for Pyramid Art?
This is just the beginning of our center’s arts program. The first round of exhibitions was launched as we celebrated the Pyramid remaster in September and will continue to be updated with new installations showcasing the creativity and innovation of iconic artists. Going forward, we plan to curate biennial exhibitions showcasing a diverse array of artists and thinkers who were as ahead of their time as the Transamerica Pyramid itself.
