Guests struck by debris from Cai Guo-Qiang's fireworks at PST Art launch event
Briefly

The event took a dangerous turn with actual collisions, as debris from the fireworks struck several guests—a few of whom needed first-aid treatment. Getty spokesperson Alexandria Sivak acknowledged multiple injuries caused by falling debris and expressed concern towards the affected attendees. Despite the overall goal of the event to celebrate art and science, the dangerous incident overshadowed the occasion.
Cai Guo-Qiang, known for creating stunning pyrotechnic displays like those for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, narrating the event through an AI-assisted translator, showcased his latest work "WE ARE" at the Los Angeles Coliseum. The night promised an artistic expression of fire and color, culminating in dramatic explosions, but ultimately turned distressing due to injuries from falling debris.
The Getty, the world's wealthiest arts organization, has invested around $20 million in the PST Art exhibition, primarily funding local museums to create their own shows. Attendees were excited to experience the unique combination of art and science through Cai's fireworks, but the unforeseen injuries during the event added a tragic twist to what was meant to be a spectacular kickoff.
As per the detailed statement from Getty, the fallout from the lavish event included not just the fireworks but also the distress following the injuries. The aim was to create a positive experience celebrating the intersection of art and science, rather than a moment marred by safety concerns.
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