Ai Weiwei Quotes

I have to respect my life, and free expression is part of my life. I can never really silence myself.

Even if there have been setbacks during these past years, China is changing. China’s society is opening.

Freedom of expression is a very essential condition for me to make any art. Also, it is an essential value for my life. I have to protect this right and also to fight for the possibility.

I always want people to be confused, to be shocked or realize something later.

The tragic reality of today is reflected in the true plight of our spiritual existence. We are spineless and cannot stand straight.

The fantasy we had with pearls was always so luxurious and unique with a kind of rareness.

A nation that has no music and no fairytales is a tragedy.

Ordinary people should have the same ability to understand art as anybody else. I don’t think art is elite or mysterious. I don’t think anybody can separate art from politics.

Everyone of us is a potential convict.

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.