Quotes by

Ai Weiwei

As a person, I was born to give out my opinions. By giving out my opinions, I realize who I am. As long as I can communicate, Im not so lonely. If I cannot travel, or do art, or have company, if they take away all my belongings, it doesnt matter at all. – Ai Weiwei

If we all say the same thing, then I think the government has to listen. But because no one is saying it, I become singled out, even though what Im saying is common sense. Its very essential values that we all have to protect. But in Chinese society, people are giving up on protecting these values. – Ai Weiwei

This week, the world gathers in Beijing for the 2008 Olympic games. This is the extraordinary moment China has been dreaming of for 100 years. People have been longing for this moment, because it symbolises a turning point in Chinas relationship with the outside world. – Ai Weiwei

Censorship is saying: Im the one who says the last sentence. Whatever you say, the conclusion is mine. But the internet is like a tree that is growing. The people will always have the last word – even if someone has a very weak, quiet voice. Such power will collapse because of a whisper. – Ai Weiwei

People are always wondering if I am an artist or political activist or politician. Maybe Ill just clearly tell you: Whatever I do is not art. Lets say it is just objects or materials, movies or writing, but not art, OK? – Ai Weiwei

I think Chinese leadership is trying to tell the world they have another set of logic or reasoning or values which are different from yours. Of course, I dont think they believe that. Its just an argument thats made when you cant confront the truth and facts. They really want to maintain power. – Ai Weiwei

This nation is notorious for its ability to make or fake anything cheaply. Made-in-China goods now fill homes around the world. But our giant country has a small problem. We cant manufacture the happiness of our people. – Ai Weiwei

I dont 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

Everyone wants an iPhone, but it would be impossible to design an iPhone in China because its not a product its an understanding of human nature. – Ai Weiwei

The Birds Nest National Stadium, which I helped to conceive, is designed to embody the Olympic spirit of fair competition. It tells people that freedom is possible but needs fairness, courage and strength. – Ai Weiwei

To work in architecture you are so much involved with society, with politics, with bureaucrats. Its a very complicated process to do large projects. You start to see the society, how it functions, how it works. Then you have a lot of criticism about how it works. – Ai Weiwei

The Chinese art world does not exist. In a society that restricts individual freedoms and violates human rights, anything that calls itself creative or independent is a pretence. It is impossible for a totalitarian society to create anything with passion and imagination. – 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

When you have strict censorship of the internet, young students cannot receive a full education. Their view of the world is imbalanced. There can be no true discussion of the issues. – Ai Weiwei