AI WEIWEI TEMPORARY EXHIBITION
– DROPPING A HAN DYNASTY URN –

SHARE ON

CASE STUDY

Based on the artist’s conviction and ideology, the aim of this concept was to encapsulate his controversial artwork by creating an impressive mystical space that is appealing yet at the same time, frightening. This exhibition does not only incorporate Ai Weiwei’s thoughts and works, but also reflects his life and native country (China) and its boundaries of freedom.

The whole exhibition is divided into several sections. The entrance is represented by a dark, barred ticket office. Once you step onto the moving walkway, you are faced with the dragon path, a foggy area which leads visitors towards freedom. An imposing dragon sculpture stands in the center of the room, and vacuum bubbles filled with symbols of destruction and power hang from the ceiling all along the path. Tall jail bars line the right wall, and on the left stands a brick wall with ancient Chinese warriors. The main exhibition area is situated at the back of the room, where Ai Weiwei’s main pieces of art (Dropping a Hun Dynasty Urn, Sunflower Seeds, and Colored Vases) are displayed. After escaping this anxious space, you are led out into a photography room. Here visitors can buy an imitation of Hun Dynasty vase, which they can drop and break as a symbolic act of removing their deep-rooted fears.

BACK