A large-scale sculpture by Korean American artist Michael Joo collapsed during the opening reception of his solo exhibition at Space ZeroOne in Tribeca, New York. The artwork, titled 'Saltiness of Greatness' (1992) and composed of compressed salt blocks, reportedly fell after being disturbed by a visitor, resulting in minor injuries to four attendees including a curator, a gallerist, and a foundation board member. The gallery, operated by the Hanwha Foundation of Culture, has temporarily closed to review safety procedures following the incident.
The accident draws attention to the physical risks of immersive installations and the controversial background of the venue's parent organization. Space ZeroOne is a project of the Hanwha Group, a South Korean defense conglomerate that has recently faced 'art washing' accusations from activists due to its weapons manufacturing. The event also highlights the significant career of Michael Joo, a former Venice Biennale representative whose work with organic materials is held in major global institutions like MoMA and the Guggenheim.