Chinese artist Gao Zhen is sentenced to three years in prison for slandering China’s “heroes and martyrs.” The conviction relates to comments or expressions authorities link to his satirical sculptures of Mao Zedong, according to multiple reports. The New York Times and The Guardian both describe Gao as part of a brotherly duo known for provocative art.
The case follows Gao’s earlier detention. The Guardian reports he is sentenced about two years after he is detained while visiting China with his family, based on statements from his wife and human rights groups. The Guardian also says the trial is held privately over a single day and highlights criticism that the artworks were created more than a decade before the law used in the prosecution was introduced. The outlets also note that the secrecy of the proceedings and the use of the later law contribute to international concern.
