Exiled artist Ai Weiwei told Sky News that political censorship in the West today is “exactly the same” as it was in China under communist leader Mao Zedong.
The 66-year-old defector told Sky News Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips That “society becomes so timid, that it really avoids any kind of questioning or controversy.”
He was responding to a question about the cancellation of his exhibition, which was held by Lisson Gallery in London in November, after comments on social media indicating… The conflict between Israel and Hamas.
His post, which was later deleted, suggests that “guilt over the persecution of the Jewish people” was transferred and used against the Arab world.
He also said that the Jewish community has significant influence in US media, finance and culture, and that annual US military aid of $3bn (£2.45bn) to Israel means the two countries have a “shared destiny”.
“You know, society becomes so timid that it really avoids any kind of questioning or debate,” Ai told Phillips.
“So I was talking on Twitter, just to answer someone's question.
“Usually you can talk, or whatever you want.
“You can joke, you can make fun, you can, you know, just give your opinions.
“But today I see a lot of people who, by expressing their fundamental opinions, are dismissed, and censored.
“This has become very common.”
Ai says Western artists have been “corrupted by capitalism.” Photo: AP
Referring to his family’s exile when he was one year old, the activist said: “I grew up under this intense political censorship.
“I realize now, today in the West, you are doing exactly the same thing.”
He drew parallels with Mao's disastrous purges, which pushed China to the brink of chaos.
Criticism of the suspension of two New York University professors over comments related to them Gaza“This is actually like a cultural revolution, which is really trying to destroy anyone who has different positions, not even a clear opinion,” Ai said.
“So I think this is very unfortunate, that this is happening in the West, on a very large scale in universities, in the media, everywhere.
“In universities or the political sector – everywhere – you cannot speak the truth.”
Ai's art often addresses political issues in China He has often criticized Beijing's record on human rights and democracy.
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Asked whether he thought Western artists were doing enough to defend freedom of expression, Ai described them as “corrupted by capitalism.”
“They are just seeking money and also fame,” he said.
In 2011, Ai was arrested at Beijing Capital International Airport and detained for 81 days. He left China in 2015 and has not returned since.
His main residence is currently in Portugal, but he maintains a studio in Berlin and properties in the UK.
But the artist said he “never regretted” speaking out.
“I stand for a value that will benefit and benefit everyone,” he said.
“My little experience doesn't really matter, but I have to speak up somewhat.
“The artist has a responsibility to do that.”
Weiwei's graphic memoir, Zodiac, was published by Penguin Random House at the end of January.
Watch Sky News' Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips at 8.30am to watch the full interview with Ai Weiwei.
