Graffiti activists detained by Chinese

Using light technology developed by Graffiti Research Lab (GRL) to create non-destructive graffiti, five pro-Tibet activists displayed a "Free Tibet" banner in Beijing's Olympic Park. They were detained after 20 seconds and their whereabouts are unknown. James Powderly, free speech activist and co-founder of the Graffiti Research Lab, was also detained in Beijing soon after. This incident is a wonderful example of how graffiti continues to be used as a creative means for political expression.

Not to get all political, but I wonder what would happen if five young Chinese activists came to the U.S. and unfurled a graffiti light banner during the Superbowl that protested the American invasion and occupation of Iraq.

As reported on BoingBoing:

"The Chinese government is desperate to turn the world's attention away from its abuses in Tibet as the Olympics take place, but the creativity and determination of Tibetans and their supporters has once again ensured that Tibetan voices are heard and seen in Beijing despite the massive security clampdown," said Tenzin Dorjee, Deputy Director of Students for a Free Tibet. "The Chinese leadership must realize that the only way it can make the issue of Tibet disappear is to acknowledge the demands of the Tibetan people and work with them to bring an end to China's occupation of Tibet."