Gao Qiang

Gao Zhen, also known as Gao Qiang, is a 69-year-old Chinese dissident artist residing in the United States. He is known for creating satirical sculptures of former Chinese leader Mao Zedong. Gao is currently newsworthy due to his trial in China on charges of "defaming national heroes and martyrs." He was detained in 2024 while visiting China from the US. The trial highlights concerns about increasing censorship and tightening control over artistic expression in China, even for works created years ago. His case is seen as part of a broader pattern of Beijing's crackdown on perceived dissent across various artistic and literary fields. Gao faces a potential three-year prison sentence if convicted, according to his wife and a rights group researcher. The case underscores the risks faced by artists who challenge the Chinese government's narrative, even when operating from abroad.