To survive, China had to open up to the West. It could not survive otherwise. This was after many millions have died of hunger in a country that was like North Korea is today. Once we became part of global competition, we had to agree to some rules. It's painful, but we had to. Otherwise there was no way to survive.

Each year, more people want to become artists.

If my art has nothing to do with people's pain and sorrow, what is 'art' for?

Imagine one day, the hateful world around you collapses. And it is your attitude, words and actions that put an end to it. Will you be excited?

We live in changing times, and many people experience the challenges that come with it. In the face of uncertain futures, no one will know what to expect.

I don't think [price] reflects if the work is good or bad.A good artist shouldn't be nervous about that.

Everyone of us is a potential convict.