Towering homage to Buddhas destroyed by Taliban rises over Manhattan

Key Points:

• Vietnamese American artist Tuan Andrew Nguyen has created a 27-foot sandstone sculpture titled "The Light That Shines Through the Universe," inspired by the Buddhas of Bamiyan destroyed by the Taliban in 2001, now installed at Hudson Yards' High Line plinth in Manhattan.
• The sculpture incorporates two monumental steel hands cast from melted artillery shells sourced from Afghanistan, symbolizing fearlessness and compassion, reflecting Nguyen's practice of transforming war materials into symbols of memory and healing.
• The artwork contrasts its ancient sandstone material with the modern industrial surroundings of Hudson Yards, evoking a sense of time travel and connecting contemporary viewers with art history.
• Originally conceived amid the Taliban's return to power and Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the piece has gained further relevance due to ongoing global conflicts, including the US and Israel's war with Iran.
• The installation will be accompanied by monthly lectures and guided meditation sessions, beginning May 16 during the Frieze New York art fair, continuing the High Line Plinth's tradition of showcasing impactful public art.