The Case for Ai Weiwei | The Art Assignment | PBS Digital Studios

Ai Weiwei, a renowned artist, is known for his controversial art that challenges cultural norms and political structures. Born in Beijing, he faced political exile and later moved to New York, where he was influenced by avant-garde art. Returning to China, he used traditional materials to create provocative art, questioning modernization and cultural heritage. His activism highlights social issues, such as the Sichuan earthquake and refugee crises. Despite facing censorship, Ai remains a vocal advocate for free speech and human rights, blending art with activism to provoke thought and action.

What paradox does Ai Weiwei's act of dropping a 2000-year-old urn highlight?

• The tension between tradition and innovation

• The relationship between artist and audience

• The conflict between cultural preservation and destruction

• The balance between art and commerce

Which artist influenced Ai Weiwei during his time in New York?

• Pablo Picasso

• Vincent van Gogh

• Marcel Duchamp

• Andy Warhol

How does Ai Weiwei use traditional Chinese techniques in his art?

• By painting landscapes

• By using modern technology

• By creating digital art

• By hiring skilled craftspeople

What was Ai Weiwei's response to the Sichuan earthquake?

• He wrote a book about the event

• He assembled volunteers to gather names of the deceased

• He organized a protest march

• He created a documentary film

What challenges has Ai Weiwei faced from Chinese authorities?

• He was given a government grant

• He was awarded a national prize

• He was invited to a state dinner

• He was detained and surveilled

How does Ai Weiwei view liberty?

• As a right to privacy

• As a right to own property

• As a right to question everything

• As a right to travel freely

What does Ai Weiwei's work ask us to consider?

• What we value and why

• The importance of financial success

• The value of modern technology

• The role of government in art