A sculpture by renowned Chinese artist and activist Ai Weiwei was vandalized during the private opening of his exhibition in Bologna, Italy. The incident occurred at the Palazzo Fava where the exhibition titled 'Who am I?' was inaugurated on Saturday. The vandal, a 57-year-old Czech man claiming to be an artist, was apprehended by local police. This individual has a history of targeting significant works of art.
The vandal managed to gain access to the invitation-only event, where he proceeded to smash the large blue and white 'Porcelain Cube' created by Ai Weiwei. The artist's wishes were respected as the broken fragments were covered and removed. They will be replaced with a life-sized print and an explanatory label.
CCTV footage shared by Ai Weiwei on Instagram captured the moment of the attack, showing the man deliberately pushing the sculpture to the ground. Following the act of vandalism, the museum's security intervened promptly, preventing further damage.
Arturo Galansino, the curator of the exhibition, expressed shock and disappointment at the incident. He emphasized that Ai Weiwei's works often explore themes of destruction as a commentary on violence and injustice. Galansino condemned the vandal's actions as reckless, senseless, and potentially dangerous.
Describing the attacker as a habitual troublemaker seeking attention through damaging art and cultural heritage, Galansino highlighted the stark contrast between Ai Weiwei's message of social critique and the destructive behavior exhibited.
