Ai Weiwei – Circle of Animals / Zodiac Heads

Ai Weiwei, one of China’s most successful and internationally renowned artists, has not been heard from since he was apprehended by the Chinese government in Beijing on April 3. Ai Weiwei’s absence overshadowed the unveiling of his latest exhibition in London’s Somerset House. The exhibition is called “Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads” and consists of 12 cast bronze sculptures representing the Chinese zodiac.  Admission to the exhibition is free and it will be open until June 26. If you are interested in visiting it yourself you can find out more here.

Relatives and human-rights groups fear for Ai Weiwei, claiming that his absence is a result of his political activism. Chinese officials have denied this, instead stating that the artist is under investigation for economic crimes. Critics have fiercely protested his arrest, especially the art world. The Tate Modern in London for example has put up a large sign on their exterior that reads “Release Ai Weiwei”. The Tate is also home to one of Ai Weiwei’s most popular exhibitions ‘Sunflower Seeds’. We can but echo these sentiments in the hope that this inspiring Chinese national remains unharmed.