Hong Kong Clamps Down On Art Thought To Be Critical Of China

Today’s ArtDaily contains a story describing how officials are increasing censorship of art in Hong Kong that is considered to be an “insult” to China. It notes that pro-Beijing politicians and State-owned newspapers have been denouncing various arts groups as conducting “anti-government activities.”

After the security laws were revised last June, books deemed offensive have been removed from libraries, school curricula have been re-written, and elections are in the process of being revamped. A film-maker interviewed for the story suggested it was only logical that the government would come for the artists next. Dissident artist, Ai WeiWei (whose sculptures were exhibited at the Portland Art Museum a few years ago) has had work taken down.

Hong Kong protest art photo (detail) from Economist story