Works from Juazeiro do Norte

Works from Juazeiro do Norte (Named After Weiwei Saw the Work) is a collection of works carved from wood in the style of ex-votos. The works were made in collaboration with artisans from a community in Juazeiro do Norte using the language of traditional votive offerings to the saints and the divine. Ex-votos are given in fulfillment of a vow, as a sign of gratitude and devotion, or when the devotee seeks a blessing or miracle.For Ai’s ex-votos, the Brazilian artisans drew from a deep well of visual material, freely interpreting works in the artist’s oeuvre (Coca-Cola Vase and Tree) and imagery related to the artists life and Internet activities (Leg Gun, the middle finger gesture, the alpaca). Pieces related to the human body, free expression, and the global refugee crisis were also produced.