Internationally acclaimed Chinese artist Ai Weiwei is coming to America to promote his new memoir.
On Jan. 23, Weiwei will appear at Town Hall in New York City to discuss Zodiac, which, according to a release, “interweaves ancient Chinese folklore with stories of his life, family, and renowned career in art and activism.” In a starred review, Kirkus praised the book as “a welcome introduction to the life and work of an exemplary artist.”
At the event, Weiwei will be interviewed by Mira Jacob, author of the 2019 graphic novel Good Talk, a National Book Critics Circle finalist.
The event will be Weiwei’s only U.S. appearance on behalf of the book.
Weiwei’s visit comes under the auspices of PEN America, the nonprofit organization that advocates for free speech and writers’ rights. The organization has spoken in defense of Weiwei, who has been beaten, harassed, surveilled, and detained by the Chinese government for his artwork and public statements. Weiwei currently lives in Europe.
“Ai Weiwei has a deep understanding of why creative and free expression matters so deeply,” PEN America’s Jared Jackson said in a release. “We feel privileged to bring this conversation to New Yorkers who value his artistry and the sacrifices he has made to continue to make art and speak out on behalf of artists and others who are persecuted for their beliefs.”
Zodiac was written with Elettra Stamboulis and illustrated by Gianluca Costantini. Ten Speed Graphic will publish the book on Jan. 23, the date of the Town Hall event.
Mark Athitakis is a journalist in Phoenix.
