A recent international biennial exhibition was held at the Jinan Art Museum in Shandong Province, China, where an AI virtual image named “Jinan Xiaonier” has sparked controversy for its “childlike face and adult body” appearance, along with its provocative gestures that some have criticized as sexualizing children.
According to reports from Jimo News, a netizen posted a video claiming that “Jinan Xiaonier,” presented at the third Jinan International Biennial Exhibition this year, features a childish girl’s face but with the body proportions of an adult.
In the video, “Jinan Xiaonier” under the mechanical shell is portrayed with noticeable curves, revealing black lace and part of the thigh, while its exaggerated and seductive movements create an eerie atmosphere that seems inappropriate for a child’s age.
After the video was circulated online, it sparked controversy. Many netizens questioned and called for the immediate removal of the exhibit. Comments like, “100% pedophilia,” “Behavior and age don’t match at all,” “The clothing is too revealing,” “Who would associate such movements with a child,” and “This is clearly abnormal. It’s not the work of a mentally healthy person,” flooded social media platforms.
In response to the backlash, the art museum stated on the 4th that all exhibits in the biennial exhibition undergo strict review by the jury before being displayed, denying any negative influence or intentions.
However, the museum’s statement only fueled further criticism from netizens: “Strict review?,” “This response is chilling upon closer reflection,” “If this is considered strict, the evaluators should be reevaluated,” “Investigate the background and cultural tendencies of those who performed the strict review!”
The controversy surrounding “Jinan Xiaonier” at the biennial exhibition has raised questions about art, child protection, and societal norms, prompting discussions on the boundaries of artistic expression and the responsibilities of cultural institutions in shaping public perceptions and values.