Gao Zhen Detained Under China's Heroes Law for Mao-Critical Works

Chinese artist Gao Zhen, 69, has been detained and charged under the Heroes and Martyrs Protection Law for artworks critical of Mao Zedong and the Cultural Revolution. His brother and collaborator Gao Qiang reported that police raided their studio on August 26, confiscating works over a decade old. The 2018 law prohibits slander of designated national heroes, with penalties up to three years in prison. Gao Zhen, a US resident since 2022, was visiting family in China when arrested. He is held at Sanhe City Detention Centre in Beijing. According to Human Rights Watch, his health is failing; he fainted in September and a doctor suggested arteriosclerosis. He shares a 40sqm cell with 14 others. Medical bail was denied. Trial is expected in months. The brothers have faced prior repercussions, including a travel ban from 1989 to 2003 and seizures in 2006.