Heart in the Park by JEFRË | Photo from Annina Webster
Designed by Filipino American artist JEFRË, the world’s tallest heart structure, titled “Heart in the Park,” recently had its grand opening in Port St. Lucie, Florida.
‘Heart in the Park’
The 73-foot-tall stainless steel structure has already reached record-setting status for its height, albeit unofficially. In comparison, the “Francis” heart in Portugal dedicated to the late Pope Francis stands at a height of 39 feet.
But for JEFRË, the art piece is more than its record-setting and landmark status – it’s a “symbol of what connects us all.”
You may like: The artistic genius that is Jefrë
JEFRË
As recently as 2024, the renowned artist designed the silver figurine trophies for the 50th year of the Metro Manila Film Festival. A year later, JEFRË found himself unveiling another creation, one billed as the world’s tallest sculpture of its kind.
JEFRË | Photo from JEFRË
In an event promoting “Heart in the Park,” he shared his inspiration behind the art piece, as well as the decision to pursue a career in public art in the first place:
“At the age of 35, I had a heart attack and had triple-bypass surgery,” he told Hometown News. “That moment changed my life […] This heart doesn’t just represent my story; it represents our story. It’s a tribute to second chances, to shared strength, to love that binds us all.”
View this post on Instagram
The Aug. 23 event coincided with the opening of The Shoppes at the Heart plaza, a 71,000-square-foot dining and shopping center right by the shining “Heart” sculpture.
In partnership with the American Heart Association and the St. Lucy County Fire District, the event also featured hands-on CPR training, pledge booths and an opportunity to see the artist himself.
