As an internationally-acclaimed artist, Ai Weiwei has received a great deal of global attention and concern following his disappearance and detention while he is investigated for alleged “economic crimes.” In an unusual move, museum directors from around the world have launched a petition addressed to the Chinese Ministry of Culture demanding his release. (Read the petition here.) The Tate Modern in London, which is currently hosting Ai’s Sunflower Seeds exhibit, has also addressed their concern on their website and more publicly on the roof of their building:
Artists have also taken their own action inside the exhibit itself (posted by Kate Saunders):
Following Bob Dylan’s first ever concert in China, some listeners criticized the rock legend, famous for his protest ballads, for apparently censoring his act according to the Chinese government’s demands. The Times of London published it’s response in a video that reworks his famous Subterranean Homesick Blues video to honor Ai Weiwei (Dylan’s original video can be seen here).
