I think my stance and my way of life is my most important art.
Ai WeiweiRead
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.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Art is intrinsically linked to freedom of expression and is influenced by politics.
Ai Weiwei emphasizes that art is fundamentally a form of freedom of expression, one that cannot be divorced from the political context in which it exists. His assertion that attempts to separate art from politics are themselves politically motivated underlines the power dynamics inherent in artistic creation and its reception.
Themes
ArtFreedomExpressionPoliticsIntention
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech promoting local artists, I might say, 'As Ai Weiwei states, art is about freedom of expression and is inseparable from politics.'
More from Ai Weiwei
All quotes →Self-censorship is insulting to the self. Timidity is a hopeless way forward.
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If there is no free speech, every single life has lived in vain
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Art is always about overcoming obstacles between the inner condition and the skill for expression.
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As a human being, member of society, you must clearly state your mind. It's a responsibility. It is the way you identify yourself otherwise you don't know who you are and why you are here.
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I am very much interested in the so-called useless object. I mean, it takes perfect craftsmanship, beautiful material carefully measured and crafted, but at the same time it’s really useless.
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