My mother became much older when I came out (ed's note: of detention). She had problems with her hearing and high blood pressure. But they still support me.

Beijing is constructing a 100,000 m2 modern art museum, yet it will not feature any of my work.

The tragic reality of today is reflected in the true plight of our spiritual existence. We are spineless and cannot stand straight.

If I walk on the street, if I go to a restaurant, people come to me and say: "Can we take a photo together? Can you give me your autograph?" They would bring their expensive Armani or Prada wallet to sign. Other people who are desperate show me a photo of their dead daughter and ask: Can you support me? I tell them: How can I? Morally, of course, I sympathize with you. But I cannot support you and you cannot support me. This is the condition of this society. We are separated.

Once you've tasted freedom, it stays in your heart and no one can take it. Then, you can be more powerful than a whole country.

I’m an artist who is always looking for what is possible. I’m always looking to extend the boundaries.

I came back [to Beijing ] because that's the only time I had an excuse to come back, or otherwise I would never have a reason to come back.