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The Vessel is a 16-story sculpture prominently placed in a plaza in the Hudson Yards district of New York City. From a distance, it kind of looks like an upside-down Christmas Tree,
The sculpture consists of a lattice of stairs and landings. Clad in copper. it glistens in the sunlight that makes its way into the plaza, between and reflecting off the nearby skyscrapers.
The Vessel is thus a functional work of art. Inviting residents and tourists to walk its pathways, enjoy some spectacular views, and perhaps do some shopping or stop at a restaurant if ever New York City reopens.
The problem is that during the year subsequent to its opening, the Vessel became a suicide magnet. Three people plunged themselves to their deaths from the structure. Public access to the Vessel was then suspended.
Such is the fate of New York City nowadays, where everything goes wrong.
Among the most famous suicide magnets in the world are the Eiffel Tower, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Niagara Falls. To prevent suicide, authorities do things such as restrict access and install plexiglass barriers.
