[Being unique] gives so much privilege to people who can make it, rather than having some moral and aesthetic discussions.

Everyone thinks the Chinese government selected me. Never ever. I was selected by Herzog and de Meuron.

Because Chinese art is booming, it legitimizes this profession.

Art should live in the heart of the people. Ordinary people should have the same ability to understand art as anybody else. I don't think art is elite or mysterious.

...photographs are facts, but not necessarily true... The present always surpasses the past, and the future will not care about today.

I spent a lot of time standing on street corners [of New York City] talking to local residents. I spent time in bookstores and galleries. But most of the time, I really did not have much to do.

I always admire writers. My father was a writer, a poet. I always admire people who can clearly state their mind.