A Chinese artist known for provocative sculptures of Mao Zedong has been sentenced to three years in prison.
This has sparked fresh concerns over artistic freedom in China.
Gao Zhen, 70, was convicted by a court in Hebei of “slandering China’s heroes” after authorities ruled that his artwork damaged Mao’s reputation and harmed the public interest.
But what makes the case so controversial?
Some of Gao’s most famous works were created years before the law he was charged under came into force.
His sculptures include Execution of Christ, showing Mao-like figures pointing guns at Jesus.
They also include works portraying Mao in deliberately humiliating poses.
Art Under Scrutiny
Gao had moved to the US but was arrested during a visit to China in 2024.
He has already spent two years in detention, meaning he could be released as early as August 2027 if the sentence stands.
Amnesty International called the conviction an “assault” on artistic freedom, while the UN raised concerns about the use of criminal law retroactively.
Gao’s brother said the case sends a worrying message.
Artwork created 15 years ago can potentially become a crime when the political climate changes.
Gao plans to appeal. The bigger question now is whether challenging history through art can itself become punishable in China.
