Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads

art installation by Ai Weiwei

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July 20, 2026

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The Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads is a contemporary art installation by Chinese artist Ai Weiwei. This work features 12 bronze sculptures, each representing an animal from the Chinese zodiac. The installation was created for the São Paulo Biennial in 2010 and later unveiled in New York City and London in 2011. Ai Weiwei's art often explores themes of cultural heritage, political commentary, and social issues, and this piece draws inspiration from traditional Chinese symbolism while engaging with contemporary artistic and political contexts.

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…in detention, his public installation Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads, which featured bronze sculptures inspired by the Chinese zodiac, was unveiled in New York City and London. The work had been created for the São Paulo Biennial in 2010.
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…in detention, his public installation Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads, which featured bronze sculptures inspired by the Chinese zodiac, was unveiled in New York City and London. The work had been created for the São Paulo Biennial in 2010.
Read More