Ai Weiwei

Free Speech

€1,200

Artwork

Edition of 10060.0 (H) × 60.0 (W) cm

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Free Speech belongs to a trio of artworks by Ai Weiwei which combine innovative printing methods with pillars of freedom upheld throughout his practice.

The edition encompasses rife global friction between free expression and censorship. Birds with open beaks – a nod to Twitter – hover above a symmetrical arrangement of razor wire, printed in 11 distinct layers on a silkscreen press. Glossy, vibrant colours contrast a matte black underprint, while a series of varnish highlights and phosphorescent details anoint the composition with depth and drama.

Stylistically, the work is an ode to papercut artworks made by the artist’s father – a renowned poet persecuted by the Chinese government – during his childhood. Ai's interest in paper cutting also stems from its historic status as a domestic pursuit, rather than a viable artistic medium.

Go behind the scenes at Make-Ready in London as Ai reflects on the profundities of printmaking, and its lineage within his practice.

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06:12

Behind the scenes

artist Ai Weiwei taking a selfie in a bathroom mirror

Ai Weiwei31 collaborationsAi Weiwei is unafraid to speak truth to power. He’s one of the most famous living artists today – a testament to the breadth and vision of his practice. Effortlessly, he moves between different media, from sculpture and architecture to performance and documentary film. His work is often monumental in scale and is driven by a hunger for truth and justice. In 2008, for example, Ai spent many months collecting the names of over 5000 children who lost their lives in the Sichuan earthquake. This unflinching dedication to human rights saw him detained by the Chinese government for 81 days in 2011, accused of ‘subverting the state.’

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Reviews from Avant collectors

the print is amazing. cant wait to frame and hang.
Review of Rainbow Bridge
it was an absolute pleasure making the purchase Avant Art. Communication was great and the print arrived as specified. i would definitely recommend your company.
Review of Actual Size
Excellent service, together with an exceptional work of art!
Review of Descendent - Lucid Dreamer
Beautiful piece! Love it so much
Review of Actual Size
WellWellDone. looking forward to your further offerings i may support.
Review of Actual Size
outstanding paper quality and excellent packaging. love it.
Review of Actual Size
were happy to have the print and are grateful for the professional correspondence. we look fwd to purchasing prints in the future.
Review of Prismatic Head Composition
Such a great and perfect experience working with Avant Arte. I am forever grateful for your kindness and communication throughout this entire process. Art was delivered perfectly, beautifully, and on-time, as promised. Love your company!
Review of Actual Size

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