THE SKATEROOM and Ai Weiwei Unveil a Defiant Third Collaboration
THE SKATEROOM proudly announces its third collaboration with renowned multidisciplinary artist and activist Ai Weiwei. Building on the success of two acclaimed collections, this latest release reimagines three key photographs from Ai Weiwei’s controversial series Study of Perspective as striking art editions on skate decks.
Timely and provocative, the collection critiques global power structures. Among the featured designs are White House, as well as a “visual attack” on the Eiffel Tower and the infamous Tiananmen Square — a powerful reminder of political oppression and resistance.
Chinese-born Ai Weiwei has built an artistic legacy on works that challenge political systems, oppose governmental oppression and campaign loudly for social justice. A committed defender of the truth, he has spoken out against human right violations and transgressions of democracy, often to the detriment of his own physical safety and political freedom.
Art as Resistance
Study of Perspective, a collection of photographs showcasing the artist’s middle finger resolutely pointed at major global landmarks, is a prime example of this unbreakable fusion between art and activism, so characteristic of Ai Weiwei’s practice. Posted to his blog starting in 1995, the photographs are taken in the style of innocent tourist snapshots, emphasizing the disconnect between man and political power and urging the viewer to question propagandist ideas.
The photos, including that of Tiananmen Square, remain banned in China. Their creator however, is evidently not stopping anytime soon, continuing his impact from multiple bases around the world.
Ai Weiwei’s art is essential. Not just because it influenced the Chinese avant-garde and modernist movements, but because it inspired millions to discover the tangible power of their own creativity. THE SKATEROOM’s mission has always been to transform art into impact, and this collection celebrates Ai Weiwei’s fearless approach to addressing themes of freedom, resistance, and human rights.
