China Jails Artist Gao Zhen for Three Years Over Satirical Mao Statues

BANGKOK — Chinese artist Gao Zhen was sentenced to three years in prison Tuesday for “infringing upon the reputation of heroes” over his satirical works, including statues of former Chinese leader Mao Zedong.

Gao, who lives in the United States and forms part of the internationally recognized Gao Brothers artistic duo, was arrested while visiting family in China in August 2024. He has remained in official custody since his arrest.

He was sentenced by the Sanhei People’s Court in northern Hebei province, his wife Zhao Yaliang said.

The charges stem from artworks that authorities allege insulted revolutionary figures, including a 2009 sculpture titled Mao’s Guilt, depicting the former leader and founder of modern China kneeling in repentance. Another series, Miss Mao, presents a caricatured version of Mao with exaggerated features.

Shane Yi, a researcher at Chinese Human Rights Defenders who has advocated for the case, called the sentence “a clear violation of freedom of expression.”

Yi pointed out that the works in question were created before the law used to prosecute Gao was enacted, adding that the artist intends to appeal.

The court did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Amnesty International criticized the ruling, describing it as a deterrent to artistic expression.

“The prolonged pre‑trial detention and the ultimate decision to convict Gao Zhen and impose the maximum three‑year term under this charge demonstrate the authorities’ resolve to silence independent artistic expression,” said Sarah Brooks, Amnesty International’s China Director.

“No artist should face criminal penalties for work that questions official narratives or fosters critical reflection on history,” she added.

Zhao said she hopes to reunite with her husband and return to the United States, where the family had previously settled.

“I thought two years was my limit, and I was deeply disappointed and sad. I haven’t been able to catch my breath,” she said. She had already prepared clothing for her husband, hoping he would be released. In China, courts often count a sentence’s start date from the day a defendant is taken into custody.

The Gao Brothers, whose work explores themes of authoritarianism and censorship, rose to prominence during a period of relative openness in China and have been exhibited both domestically and internationally.

However, in recent years, the state has tightened its control over expression, particularly regarding political figures, following the 2018 law that prohibits criticism of the nation’s heroes.

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