My definition of art has always been the same. It is about freedom of expression. I don’t think anybody can separate art from politics. The intention to separate [the two] is itself a very political intention. Ai Weiwei More Quotes by Ai Weiwei More Quotes From Ai Weiwei Our lives are bound by physical limits, familial ties, political conditions, and geographical restrictions. Individual freedom takes us beyond them all. Ai Weiwei political ties limits All movies in China are censored. Out of 600 movies produced in China, only 60 are allowed to show in theatres. Ai Weiwei china theatre shows Modern Chinese culture is weak and lackluster. Ai Weiwei modern chinese culture Beijing is constructing a 100,000 m2 modern art museum, yet it will not feature any of my work. Ai Weiwei modern museums art So-called Chinese art and culture is under control of the Party. They exist to serve the official agenda. I call it fake art and culture. Ai Weiwei chinese fake art The freedom of speech is an important yardstick for a society's level of civilization. Ai Weiwei freedom-of-speech important civilization The biggest obstacle in interacting with China is the difference in perspectives about basic values. These include issues such as human rights, the concept of law and constitution. Ai Weiwei issues differences law China spends a lot of resources and effort on gaining soft power over culture. The hope is that it can be the last lifeline for the Party's survival. Obviously, the idea will fail. Ai Weiwei effort party ideas China has a rich history that has spanned millennia. It consists of the histories of many nations and regions. Ai Weiwei china rich nations China's culture and history are closely related to my living environment. This country is my birthplace. It is also where I grew up. Its culture and history shape my relations with family, friends, society, and daily life. Ai Weiwei shapes country culture We live in changing times, and many people experience the challenges that come with it. In the face of uncertain futures, no one will know what to expect. Ai Weiwei challenges faces people My understanding of Chinese history is limited. So far, I have only scratched its surface; I wish I could find out more. Ai Weiwei chinese understanding wish China seems unpredictable because it has a distinct culture and social system. It is still a mystery to other parts of the world, even though the veil of China has been lifted many times as a result of globalization. Ai Weiwei veils culture world The demand for individual freedom leads us to different realms, and it enables us to participate in social events. Ai Weiwei demand events different I don't believe in the so-called Olympic spirit. I speak from personal experience. When China hosted the Games, it failed to include the people. The event was constructed without regard for their joy. Ai Weiwei games believe people For all the tough talk about China during the presidential debates, Romney and Obama evaded any mention of China's suspect human rights record, corruption, and rule of law. Ai Weiwei controversial-topics rights law Measuring national prestige by gold medals is like using Viagra to judge the potency of a man. Ai Weiwei gold judging men Anyone fighting for freedom does not want to totally lose their freedom. Ai Weiwei fighting doe want China and the U.S. are two societies with very different attitudes towards opinion and criticism. In China, I am constantly under surveillance. Even my slightest, most innocuous move can - and often is - censored by Chinese authorities. Ai Weiwei often-is attitude moving Expressing oneself is like a drug. I'm so addicted to it. Ai Weiwei expressing-oneself oneself drug
