LESBOS, Greece – Chinese artist and activist Ai Weiwei said Thursday he decided to withdraw his works from two Danish museums out of deep anger at a new law allowing Denmark to seize valuables from migrants.

Ai said he wanted to give a “clear statement” on what he considered an absurd law.

He spoke on Lesbos island in Greece, the main point of entry for refugees and economic migrants seeking a better life in Europe.

Ai has set up a studio there, and told The Associated Press that the project will last “at least a year.” The studio will produce several projects with refugee-related themes.

He said he wants to be “part of the daily experience” and rescue of thousands of refugees crossing the stormy Aegean Sea from Turkey to Lesbos.

On Thursday, he joined with NGO staff helping migrants who had just arrived at a beach in inflatable rubber boats, lending a hand and chatting to people heading to buses waiting to take them to a camp.

He also visited Lesbos last month and has said he expects to go there several times over the next year, or even beyond, if the crisis persists. About six to 10 artists, students of his in China and Germany, will be working at the studio.

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This story has been corrected to change the second reference to Ai.