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.

My understanding of Chinese history is limited. So far, I have only scratched its surface; I wish I could find out more.

If I look at it, I would laugh. I don't know how I became successful.

Once I was in New York, I completely had no interest for a long time in what happened in China because I had been through so much. Seeing my father's life struggle and so many whole generations lose their potential or possibility in their lives. Just being pushed into this political struggle and the damage done not only to their lives but their relatives.

In a society like this there is no negotiation, no discussion, except to tell you that power can crush you any time they want — not only you, your whole family and all people like you.

Many people are going to use [Beijing National Stadium], which makes it more meaningful. If we don't design it, somebody else has to design it.

You need a purpose to express yourself, but that expression is its own purpose.