Ai Weiwei: Dropping the Urn (Ceramic Works, 5000 BC – AD 2010)

This display presents work by Beijing based artist Ai Weiwei, one of the most prominent artists working in China today. Featuring a selection of ceramic works, photographs and video this is a rare opportunity to view some of the most iconic works in the field of Chinese contemporary art. Through his work Ai addresses issues pertinent to contemporary China; notably the loss of historic material culture due to rapid modernization and the effects of the global economy on traditional modes of production. His work also engages with broader themes, including perceptions of value, mass production and globalization. ‘Ai Weiwei: Dropping the Urn’ has been organized by Arcadia University Art Gallery and supported by The Pew Centre for Arts and Heritage through the Philadelphia Exhibitions Initiative. V&A Museum