Zhou Yan Contemporary Chinese Art Archive 周彦当代中国艺术档案
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Date
2014
Format
Other
Exhibition Event Title
@Large: Ai Weiwei on Alcatraz
Date of Exhibition Event
September 27, 2014 - April 26, 2015
Location of Exhibition Event
New Industries Building, Alcatraz Island, San Francisco, United States
Materials
Bamboo, Silk, Paper, and Fabric
Description
With Wind consists of a traditional Chinese dragon kite and several smaller kites decorated with birds and flowers patterns. During the exhibition, the kites were suspended from the ceiling of the New Industries Building at the former federal prison on Alcatraz Island. They were made by traditional Chinese kite makers in collaboration with Ai Weiwei. The body of the dragon kite features quotations from individuals who experienced imprisonment or exile, including Nelson Mandela and Edward Snowden. The bird and flower patterns on the surrounding kites also represent 30 countries with histories of restricting human rights and civil liberties. The kites were suspended inside a building formerly used for prison labor, unable to fly freely. Ai Weiwei stated that the dragon represents personal freedom, but not imperial authority. (Source: https://artsandculture.google. com/story/OgWR6-s9R4gtKg) (Yida Du '29)
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