My angst and my insecurity reflect the state's angst and insecurity. The state is scared too.

The world is not changing if you don’t shoulder the burden of responsibility.

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.

If human rights are supposed to have any meaning, then they have to be discussed openly.

It's always nice to share your energy with young people, the people who might not have any skills but are simply willing to be a part of it.

For artists and intellectuals today, what is most needed is to be clear about social responsibility, because that is what most people automatically give up. Just to protect yourself as an individual is very political. You don't have to march on Tiananmen, but you do have to be clear-minded, to find your own means of expression.

I don't think my father had a direct influence on me, but I do think, more or less, I was influenced by his independent individualism. And the kind of condition he had when he was in this society - the kind of mistreatment society gave him.