The freedom of speech is an important yardstick for a society’s level of civilization.
AI WEIWEICreativity is part of human nature. It can only be untaught.
More Ai Weiwei Quotes
-
-
It’s very essential values that we all have to protect. But in Chinese society, people are giving up on protecting these values.
AI WEIWEI -
My definition of art has always been the same. It is about freedom of expression, a new way of communication. It is never about exhibiting in museums or about hanging it on the wall. Art should live in the heart of the people.
AI WEIWEI -
The practice of photography is no longer a means for recording reality. Instead, it has become reality itself
AI WEIWEI -
As a total activity – I practice curating, art, architecture, writing, and publishing all together. I still act as a living creature.
AI WEIWEI -
We grew up in a very material-lacking socialist society, but today China is a capitalist society. It’s very materialistic. It’s full of desire and luxury goods.
AI WEIWEI -
Creativity is the power to act.
AI WEIWEI -
Liberty is about our rights to question everything.
AI WEIWEI -
It’s just a way you have to set up some kind of activities to follow your instincts or your curiosities.
AI WEIWEI -
Selling high or low doesn’t mean anything. It has to do purely with the market.
AI WEIWEI -
We move so fast that memory is something we can only grasp
AI WEIWEI -
I never think any place is better than others.
AI WEIWEI -
So, the politicians and the people who make decisions very often is the one we think can make some difference. But of course they will not make a difference if the citizens or the individuals not push it or not to speak out, to possess a very strong voice about, this is not acceptable.
AI WEIWEI -
We never really see the global situation as a total situation. Today’s political leaders are still lacking of the vision.
AI WEIWEI -
These folks are creative and ironic, and the government can ultimately not control what is going on in their heads.
AI WEIWEI -
The tragic reality of today is reflected in the true plight of our spiritual existence. We are spineless and cannot stand straight.
AI WEIWEI -
I deal with students every day – from China, Germany, the United States, Hong Kong and Taiwan. And I’ve noticed that the Chinese students are the least trained in having a sense of aesthetics.
AI WEIWEI -
The American experience influenced my understanding of individuality, basic human rights, freedom of expression and the rights and responsibilities of citizens.
AI WEIWEI -
Everyone thinks the Chinese government selected me. Never ever. I was selected by Herzog and de Meuron.
AI WEIWEI -
I think it’s quite narrow-minded. There wasn’t much encouragement or opportunities for any artist – not just Chinese artists.
AI WEIWEI -
I curated this show [Shanghai Biennale ], I was by no means trying to shock people or be controversial.
AI WEIWEI -
I also have to speak out for people around me who are afraid, who think it is not worth it or who have totally given up hope. So I want to set an example: you can do it and this is OK, to speak out.
AI WEIWEI -
I’m doing quite a few things now. In one day, I will go to Kassel, Germany, for a documentary project I’ve been preparing for half a year.
AI WEIWEI -
Say what you say plainly, and then take responsibility for it.
AI WEIWEI -
There are many cases and layers of racist behavior in the US – from police treatment to the issues of education and job opportunities. In America, however, such cases are being discussed publically.
AI WEIWEI -
As a person, I was born to give out my opinions. By giving out my opinions, I realize who I am.
AI WEIWEI -
I don’t care if this is a great cultural event or a national symbol. It has nothing to do with me. It deals with the city.
AI WEIWEI