https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/artist-known-for-sculptures-of-mao-zedong-jailed-for-slandering-heroes-and-martyrsContinuously updated, source-cited coverage. https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/artist-known-for-sculptures-of-mao-zedong-jailed-for-slandering-heroes-and-martyrshttps://www.live-feeds.com/feed/artist-known-for-sculptures-of-mao-zedong-jailed-for-slandering-heroes-and-martyrs#u50868Fri, 28 Aug 2026 11:25:17 +0000The Sanhe City People's Court in Hebei Province sentenced New York-based artist Gao Zhen to three years in prison for slandering heroes and martyrs. Gao was found guilty of creating satirical sculptures and artworks that lampooned former leader Mao Zedong. Human rights organizations and the United States government have criticized the ruling, with Amnesty International describing the maximum sentence as an assault on artistic freedom. Gao's family and rights groups confirmed the sentencing, which targets works critical of the former leader.Why it mattersThe case highlights the strict