Looks like China's Comedy Crackdown is causing quite a stir among comedians, sparking self-censorship and fear faster than you can say "knock-knock." With sensitive topics like the Cultural Revolution and Mao becoming off-limits in the art world, even auction houses are shying away from controversy quicker than a bad joke clears a room.
The implementation of new security laws and Article 23 has artists walking on eggshells – or should I say banana peels? Political books vanishing from libraries, films under scrutiny... it's like a comedy special with all the punchlines edited out!
Despite these hurdles, Hong Kong's art scene isn't throwing in the towel just yet. The annual Art Basel and Art Central fairs continue to draw attention from around the globe, proving that creativity can't be stifled by censorship faster than you can shout "heckler!"
Let's hope these comedians find ways to tickle funny bones without stepping on any toes – unless they're clown shoes!