Gao Zhen, a 70-year-old Chinese citizen and US permanent resident, received a three-year prison sentence after being convicted of defaming China’s heroes and martyrs. The artist was detained while returning to China with his family two years before the verdict, according to accounts from his wife and human rights organizations monitoring the case.
The sentencing has drawn international criticism, particularly because the artworks central to the charges were created more than a decade before the relevant law was enacted in March 2018. The statute prohibits defamation of Chinese historical figures designated as heroes and martyrs, and courts have previously applied it to prosecute individuals who contest official historical narratives. Human rights advocates contend that prosecuting Gao for works predating the law represents a retroactive application of legislation.
Gao’s family reported that his health deteriorated significantly during detention, including fainting episodes and complications involving his back, knees, and respiratory system. His wife stated he experienced heatstroke during summer months and described conditions approaching life-threatening severity. According to his family, they have been unable to travel internationally, with travel restrictions imposed on his wife based on national security grounds. Their young son, a US citizen, has also been prevented from leaving China without parental accompaniment.
Human rights organizations and international observers have characterized the case as an example of suppressed artistic freedom. Amnesty International’s China director described the conviction as reflecting authorities’ intent to discourage independent creative expression. Gao’s brother and longtime artistic collaborator emphasized that art should not constitute criminal activity, while noting that Gao has continued creating work while detained, including paper cutting pieces.
The Chinese foreign ministry was contacted for comment on the case. The verdict took place in Sanhe city people’s court in Hebei province, with only two of Gao’s relatives permitted courtroom access during the proceedings.
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