The idea to use backpacks came from my visit to Sichuan after the earthquake in May 2008. During the earthquake many schools collapsed. Thousands of young students lost their lives, and you could see bags and study material everywhere. Then you realize individual life, media, and the lives of the students are serving very different purposes. The lives of the students disappeared within the state propaganda, and very soon everybody will forget everything.

A lot of the time [in the U.S.], I was thinking about how spending time is always questionable or is always the biggest obstacle in my life.

[Cultural departments] don't care about culture. Maybe they're the furthest from the people who understand culture.

The purpose of art is the fight for freedom.

The practice of photography is no longer a means for recording reality. Instead, it has become reality itself

Overturning police cars is a super-intense workout. It’s probably the only sport I enjoy.

In the '80s, you couldn't walk in the neighborhood without looking back to see if anyone was following you. You had your key in your hand before you got to your apartment and you'd rush in so you didn't have to stop.