Monday, 4 April 2011

The first time I saw Ai WeiWei's sunflower seeds at Tate Modern, I admit I didn't quite get it. It was a visit with far-flung family who hadn't been in London for years - and understandably there wasn't time to stop and contemplate.
I went back later, alone, as mauve twilight made it a completely different experience. And took time to watch the video of a gentle, engaging artist.
I was saddened this morning to read this.
My voice is a sunflower seed against the Chinese authorities.
Many years ago I visited China. It was barely a decade since the Cultural Revolution.
One evening another quiet, gentle man fulfilled his promise to meet a small group of us to talk about his experiences.
He asked us to be discreet as he was frightened.
I was privileged to be there and I have never forgotten.
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2 comments:

  1. All That Jazz6 April 2011 at 04:37

    How frequently we take our freedom for granted here in America. We must never forget others are not do blessed.

    Thank you for stopping by and entering our giveaway. I wish you luck and a beautiful week!

    Tara~All That Jazz Vintage

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  2. Vintage Reading9 April 2011 at 20:17

    Excellent post. I saw an interview with WeiWei - I think it was on The Culture Show and found him a fascinating man. I thought the construction of the sunflower seeds was wonderful, too. Sad news.

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