Ai Wei Ouri is looking forward to a video conference meeting.
The activist, dissident artist, and photojournalist, originally from China, has influenced the Chinese government’s stance on democracy and human rights through his speeches and writings. Proficient in various domains such as arts, filmmaking, graphic novels, and architecture, he emphasized the importance of commencing a meeting on Wednesday evening at the metropolitan offices of his publisher, Penguin Random House, without taking any risks.
Even if individuals were unfamiliar with his name, they likely recognized his accomplishments. Collaborating with the Swiss architectural company Herzog & de Meuron, he co-designed the iconic “Bird’s Nest” stadium, the intricate structure used for the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics.
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Among Ai Weiwei’s notable works is “Zodiac: A Graphic Memoir,” co-authored with Elettra Stamboulis, illustrated by Gianluca Constantin, and published by Ten Speed Graphic in 2024. Image Courtesy Penguin Random House
One of his recent projects, “Ai vs. AI,” is a public art installation at London’s Piccadilly Circus, challenging artificial intelligence for 81 days. This duration holds significance as Ai Weiwei was detained in China in 2011 for alleged “economic crimes,” enduring an 81-day arbitrary detention following his investigations into government corruption and concealment. Since being permitted to leave China in 2015 and relocate abroad, he has made Europe his home.
Having resided in New York City’s Lower East Side during the 1980s and early 1990s, Ai Weiwei is well-acquainted with the city. Following Q&A sessions at Town Hall and a visit to National Public Radio, he discussed his latest book, “Zodiac, A Graphic Memoir,” artificial intelligence, the challenges of creating without constraints, and the essence of his creative spirit with WWD.
Ai Weiwei: I would reply affirmatively. It’s an innovative approach, considering the necessity of contextualizing personal history. The interplay of politics, culture, and skill is integral, creating a tapestry that reflects the nuances and vibrancy of life.
WWD: With a wealth of experiences to draw from, how do you embark on crafting a visual memoir?
Ai Weiwei: My journey began with social media. Leveraging digital platforms significantly, my archive of actions and images facilitated the compilation of essential material by my team. While preferences may vary, the abundance of information serves as a nostalgic recollection of my youth. In contrast to the scarcity of visual literature during my childhood, where revolutionary tales dominated, contemporary narratives blend political propaganda with emotionally resonant illustrations.
However, some contend that provocative art inherently embodies authenticity.
Ai Weiwei: Indeed, authentic art embodies a narrative, intent, and aesthetics, underscoring its artistic integrity.
WWD: In tumultuous political climates, how can artists effectively navigate their roles?
Ai Weiwei: This perennial question underscores the essence of artistic responsibility. Personally, I view my craft as a responsive medium. However, the broader challenge lies in the educational paradigm that often neglects social discourse in artistic training. While some advocate for “art for art’s sake,” human experiences and actions inherently shape artistic endeavors.
Do you believe art has become excessively politicized?
Ai Weiwei: No, art scarcely captures the full spectrum of political realities. The realm of ideas is boundless, offering infinite possibilities.
WWD: Artists are increasingly leveraging their platforms to address issues like police brutality and environmental concerns.
Ai Weiwei: While your intentions are noble, AW, the efficacy of conveying your message hinges on its articulation and resonance with the audience.
WWD: Given the subjective nature of art interpretation, how do you navigate varying perspectives?
Ai Weiwei: Art’s reception is inherently subjective, influenced by the viewer’s background and the artist’s narrative. The success of art lies in its ability to engage diverse audiences.
WWD: How do you select themes for the “Ai vs. AI” project in London?
Ai Weiwei: I pose existential and contemplative questions to AI, such as “Who am I?” or “Is art collection meaningful?” By juxtaposing AI’s responses with my own, unique dialogues emerge, enriching the artistic discourse.
WWD: Is it amusing or irksome that AI shares your initials?
Ai Weiwei: It’s amusing, [chuckles], a serendipitous alignment of initials.
What aspirations do you harbor that remain unrealized?
Ai Weiwei: My ambitions are manifold; I aspire to materialize myriad creative visions, propelling me to explore uncharted territories.
How did your worldview and creative process evolve following your incarceration?
Ai Weiwei: Incarceration indelibly shapes one’s perspective, akin to navigating a labyrinthine journey. Adaptation and evolution are intrinsic, akin to a perpetual odyssey.
WWD: Do you find solace in driving?
Ai Weiwei: Driving eludes me; lacking a valid license, I derive pleasure from being chauffeured, relishing the journey from a passenger’s vantage point.
Reflecting on New York’s evolution since your residency in the 1980s and 1990s, what strikes you the most?
Ai Weiwei: New York defies simple categorization, a multifaceted tapestry blending surface allure with subterranean depths, epitomizing a vibrant human drama. Its dynamism transcends conventional art forms, embodying an unparalleled intensity. Amidst its chaos, New York pulsates with raw energy and resilience, encapsulating a microcosm of human existence.
WWD: Did your brief stint at Parsons School of Design in the East Village leave a lasting impact?
Ai Weiwei: While the Lower East Side was my abode, my academic sojourn at Simmons spanned six transformative months. Despite my partial scholarship, the exigencies of life steered me towards experiential learning on New York’s bustling streets, a pedagogy that eclipsed traditional classroom education.
WWD: Unraveling the lessons gleaned from urban exploration can be a profound journey.
Ai Weiwei: Over two decades, I deciphered life’s enigmatic teachings, gradually infusing purpose into my existence. The transformative power of experience unfolds gradually, akin to a dormant seed blossoming into profound wisdom.
WWD: How frequently do you introspect on your creative trajectory?
Ai Weiwei: While introspection punctuates my creative odyssey, the kaleidoscope of my endeavors spans a myriad of disciplines, from filmmaking to design, imbuing each pursuit with a tapestry of narratives and insights.
WWD: Amidst this profusion of activities, how do you navigate the boundless realm of creativity?
Ai Weiwei: Creativity, by its very nature, transcends constraints, unveiling limitless possibilities. While boundaries exist, my creative spirit remains unfettered, charting an uncharted course enriched by ceaseless exploration.
Are you currently immersed in architectural projects, AW?
Ai Weiwei: Presently, I am engrossed in a personal architectural endeavor, crafting a sanctuary in Portugal. This endeavor serves as a testament to my evolving relationship with space and identity, a creative pilgrimage imbued with mystery and purpose.
Observing the sprawling expanse, is it truly a 300,000-square-foot marvel, as speculated by WWD?
Ai Weiwei: How did you unearth that precise figure? [Gesturing towards the aerial view] Behold the sprawling expanse, crowned by an expansive courtyard at its heart.
WWD: The architectural marvel promises to be a sight to behold.
Ai Weiwei: Indeed, an enigmatic creation beckoning exploration and contemplation.
Is the structure slated for public use, WWD?
Ai Weiwei: The structure shrouded in secrecy eschews conventional utility, a personal testament to creative expression. Its enigmatic allure lies in its enigmatic purpose, a metaphorical journey akin to a sporting endeavor.
WWD: Are there artists or creatives currently captivating your interest?
Ai Weiwei: My interactions within the artistic sphere are limited, AW, as I eschew traditional art institutions in favor of a more organic creative process.
WWD: Do you engage with art primarily through online platforms or social media channels?
Ai Weiwei: Time permitting, I harness the digital realm for artistic engagement, leveraging social media as a conduit for creative expression.
Reflecting on your journey thus far, what moments evoke a sense of pride, AW?
Ai Weiwei: Pride is a fleeting emotion, awakening with each dawn, a testament to resilience amidst adversity. Despite enduring myriad challenges, the rhythmic pulse of life sustains me, a silent symphony echoing through 66 heartbeats. Each beat is a celebration of vitality, a poignant reminder of life’s enduring spirit.
