Ai Weiwei's Dual Exhibitions in Curitiba Mark First Latin American Gallery Show

Curitiba currently hosts two significant exhibitions by Chinese artist Ai Weiwei. The institutional exhibition 'Raiz,' curated by Marcello Dantas, opened at the Museu Oscar Niemeyer (MON) on May 1 and runs until August 4. This presentation includes major works previously shown in São Paulo, such as the refugee crisis reflection 'Law of the Journey' and the outdoor bicycle sculpture 'Forever/Bicycles.' Concurrently, the city welcomes Ai Weiwei's first commercial solo gallery exhibition in Latin America at Galeria SIM/Simões de Assis, on view from May 14 to June 29. This gallery show features older works like bamboo and porcelain sculptures from 2009, alongside pieces created during the artist's Brazilian residency for 'Raiz' but not included in the museum presentation. The galleries note the invitation for Ai Weiwei to come to Brazil was also an invitation for new interpretations and the realization of new works. Known for his politically and socially charged art, the artist seamlessly blends his artistic practice with activism. Both exhibitions include leather works featuring English quotations from authors engaging with these themes. During his time in Brazil organizing the show, Ai Weiwei engaged with regional crafts, commissioning artisans from Juazeiro do Norte to create figurines referencing his work, such as figas, the Chinese zodiac, and refugees.