An Ancient Game Seeks to Inspire Joy in “XO World” at One World Trade

The game of Jacks might feel contemporary to those of us who grew up playing it, but while it’s been spontaneously invented several times throughout history and across the world many times over, children have been enjoying the game that tests their hand-eye coordination and speed since the dawn of time (probably). 

Standing 12 feet tall and weighing in at 20,000 pounds, XO World may be the largest physical manifestation of this ancient game. The stainless steel sculpture would overwhelm most public spaces, but set against the backdrop of the 1,776 foot tall tower of One World Trade Center, the installation embodies pure joy.

Created by New Jersey-based artist Daniel Anderson to promote equality, unity, peace and love, the sculpture features an “X” that mimics the crossed game piece and the universal sign for love, and an “O” represented by a globe bringing humanity together as one.

XO World was unveiled on The International Day of Peace (September 21, 2021) with a message of World Peace and kicked off a global #ShareTheLove movement embracing equality, unity, peace and love.

XO World is on display through June 2023, and, if you’re interested in other works of art in Lower Manhattan, be sure to check out our public art directory.