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Chinese Artist Gao Zhen Detained for Insulting Heroes and Martyrs with Mao Zedong Sculptures

Aug 31, 2024, 12:04 PM

Prominent Chinese artist Gao Zhen, part of the renowned Gao Brothers, has been detained in Beijing on charges of 'insulting the honour of heroes and martyrs.' The arrest, which took place on August 26, 2024, was reportedly due to sculptures made over a decade ago that criticize Mao Zedong, including works titled 'A Kneeling Mao in Repentance' and 'The Execution of Jesus.' Gao's wife received the detention notice from the Sanhe Public Security Bureau on August 27, 2024. The authorities have removed these sculptures from the Gao Brothers' studio in Beijing's 798 Art District as evidence. Gao is currently held at the Sanhe Detention Center. This detention has sparked calls from artists and writers concerned about freedom of expression in China for Gao's immediate release.