Scan barcode
A review by jdscott50
1000 Years of Joys and Sorrows by Ai Weiwei
informative
slow-paced
5.0
A dual history and biography of Ai Weiwei and his father, Ai Qing. Ai Qing was a famous poet who lived during Chinese imperialism, World War II, and the eventual Communist rule. His poetry would inspire and encourage the war against Japan and the hope of a new Chinese Nation. However, his defense of criticisms of Mao would have him branded as a Righest and exiled. Ai Weiwei documents these hardships and how this censorship would plant the seed for his own art. His absurdity in art becomes subversive, leading to his own exile, censorship, and incarceration.
Like his father, he would be detained in a very absurdist fashion. Guards would remain in his room during his detainment and interpretation, leading to many absurd developments. Through it all, his subversive ideas thwart the Chinese government until he eventually needs to leave the country for his safety.
An illuminating look at Ai Weiwei and his father, AI Qing. Oppressive regimes always have their antagonists and, through art and beauty, provide a home for a better way.
Like his father, he would be detained in a very absurdist fashion. Guards would remain in his room during his detainment and interpretation, leading to many absurd developments. Through it all, his subversive ideas thwart the Chinese government until he eventually needs to leave the country for his safety.
An illuminating look at Ai Weiwei and his father, AI Qing. Oppressive regimes always have their antagonists and, through art and beauty, provide a home for a better way.