So, after class discussion, a few alternate interpretations were made concerning the sunflower seeds. I was happy with it in all ways. But now I see some possible conceptual problems.
One thing is that the work of the artisans was possibly exploited. Another, was that the symbolism of the seeds is mixed because, yes they represent possibility in action, but these particular seeds will never grow. Meaning a dead end in the possibility.
Also, concerning the idea of walking all over the work, someone's labor, can be seen negatively. And in turn, the fact that we weren't allowed to walk on it, meant an obstruction to the interaction, and a disconnect with the piece. (didnt bother me obviously).
Also, in the end, how far can his work go to realize the goal of the artwork? What is even his goal, politically speaking? And he must have a political goal if he makes political references in the way he does.
The question I asked Al Wei Wei was kind of scattered but touched on that last point. I asked something like "do you feel you work has a more effective voice in China or in America ( OH SHIT i totally meant the UK. Im an idiot. I meant western culture in general.) Well.. in china, the concept is more relevant, but there are more art restrictions. And in western culture, the freedom of speech is there, but our ability to directly do anything about it is null.
http://aiweiwei.tate.org.uk/content/738925611001
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