Ai Weiwei

Ai Weiwei is a hardcore Chinese artist and activist who is not afraid to be outspoken in his criticism of the ruling Communist Party in China. He definitely stands up for his beliefs with what he produces through his creative efforts.

According to an article titled "Chinese Authorities Detain Outspoken Artist" in the Wall Street Journal's Digital Network/ Asia News, dated April 3, 2011, he was detained today "as he tried to board a flight from Beijing to Hong Kong, making him the latest target of a sustained clampdown on dissent that is raising concern among many Western governments." 

He is truly inspirational.

William Kentridge utilizes pain as raw material for art

William Kentridge, born in Johannesburg, South Africa in 1955, explains how he utilizes his personal experiences with pain when creating his art work. The films he makes are a series of photographs based on his charcoal drawings over a long stretch of time. I think it is cool how he transforms his art work (drawings, paintings, collages) into videos.

Jenny Holzer projecting her artwork in Chicago

Jenny Holzer is an amazing contemporary artist....I love the way she uses words and technology as her art form! If you want to see other images of her Projections series (all over the globe), just check out her website.