Chinese Artist Gao Zhen Sentenced to Three Years in Prison Over Mao Sculptures
Chinese artist Gao Zhen, known for satirical artworks created with his brother, has been sentenced to three years in prison for slander after a secret one-day trial linked to his sculptures of Mao Zedong.
Gao Zhen, a Chinese artist known as part of a brother duo celebrated for satirical works, has been sentenced to three years in prison.
A court found him guilty of slandering one of China's officially honored historical figures. The verdict followed a trial that was held in secret and lasted only one day.
The case centered on sculptures created by Gao Zhen depicting Mao Zedong, the former Chinese leader. Gao and his brother built a reputation over the years for artwork that satirically engages with Chinese history and political figures.
The sentencing has drawn renewed attention to how Chinese authorities treat artistic works perceived as disrespectful toward the country's historical figures. Further details of the proceedings, including the full scope of the charges, have not been made public, as the trial was conducted behind closed doors.
