Renowned Chinese artist Ai Weiwei and activist and JRP | Editions release lithographic editions to benefit Human Rights Watch.
Geneva, September 10, 2024 – Swiss art publisher JRP|Editions is proud to announce its first collaboration with renowned Chinese artist and activist Ai Weiwei, in partnership with Human Rights Watch. The initiative consists of three series of limited-edition lithographs titled “Grass Mud Horse”, now available to collectors worldwide exclusively on jrp-editions.com. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Human Rights Watch.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the ongoing commitment of Ai Weiwei and JRP|Editions to promote human rights through art. The “Grass Mud Horse” lithographs are not only exceptional works of art but also carry a powerful message of resistance and freedom of expression.
“Ai Weiwei is an inspiration to those fighting oppression around the world. By
collecting these works you’re not only acquiring a piece of art history, but you’re
actually contributing to helping Human Rights Watch ensuring that we can continue
to defend human rights worldwide.”
SYMBOLISM AND RESISTANCE
The “Grass Mud Horse” lithographs feature geometric patterns composed of surveillance cameras, Twitter birds and handcuffs to symbolize the struggle for freedom of speech. The title refers to a mythical creature, which resembles a llama and has become a Chinese internet meme as a tongue-in-cheek icon of resistance to censorship by China’s online communities – perfectly embodying Ai Weiwei’s dedication to freedom and human rights.
AN ENGAGED COLLECTION
The “Grass Mud Horse” lithographs, created by Ai Weiwei, are available in three distinct color versions: “Malibu,” “Sunshine” and “Peach.” Each series is limited to 99 copies, all hand-signed by the artist and numbered. The works, printed with the historic “Voirin” lithographic press and hand-cut, are priced at CHF 1,500 (approximately USD 1,650) each, and can be acquired both individually, as well as an exclusive set in matching edition numbers.
A portion of the proceeds from the sales of the “Grass Mud Horse” lithographs will benefit Human Rights Watch, an international organization committed to investigate and report on abuses happening in all corners of the world to protect and promote human rights.
“This collaboration with Ai Weiwei and Human Rights Watch is a key step in our
commitment to promoting human rights through art.”Arnaud Hubert, CEO of JRP|Editions
ABOUT AIWEIWEI
Born in Beijing in 1957, Ai Weiwei is a multifaceted artist whose works includesculptural installations, films, photography, and large-scale human rights projects. A conceptual artist who fuses traditional craftsmanship and his Chinese heritage, Ai Weiwei’s work often revolves around human rights and democracy themes. Recognized for his critical stance toward the Chinese government, Ai Weiwei was imprisoned in 2011 and currently lives in exile. His works are exhibited in institutions and biennials worldwide, making him one of the leading defenders of freedom of
expression of his generation.
ABOUT JRP|EDITIONS
Founded in 1997, JRP|Editions is an internationally renowned independent publishing house in the field of contemporary art. By collaborating with artists, museums, galleries, and private institutions around the world, JRP|Editions has built a catalog of over 550 active titles. Since 2019, JRP|Editions has also been dedicated to limited edition art multiples, producing lithographs, silkscreens, sculptures, and other unique artworks.
PHOTOCREDITS JRP|Editions