This past week Chinese artist Ai Weiwei posted online that toy company Lego refused his bulk purchase order for their famous bricks. Lego defended its decision by saying that they do not make direct sale to persons or organizations who will use their products for political purposes.

The BBC reported that Lego's refusal has prompted sympathizers to donate the needed blocks to Ai, which he will use in an upcoming art exhibit in Australia.

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In 2014, the artist used the iconic blocks to create the images of at least 175 famous personalities, who have been imprisoned or exiled because of their political beliefs.

The Melbourne-based Victoria museum reportedly made the direct purchase order to Lego on behalf of Ai but was told by the company that the order cannot be processed.

Lego said that it has a policy to refuse any order if its products will be use for "political or highly controversial issues".

Ai wrote on his Twitter account that the Lego company is virtually imposing its version of what is political to its customers. He also made reference to the company slogan, "That is awesome!"

In Instagram, he said that the company has clearly discriminated against him and would like to censor his art works.

Lego spokesperson Roar Trangbaek said that his company respects people's right to express their feelings in a creative way. However, he said that it has been their long standing policy to refrain from encouraging any political ideas.

While Lego refused the direct purchase order, Ai or anyone interested can always buy the famous blocks from any Lego distributor or stores, according to the spokesperson.

Despite the seemingly reasonably response by Lego, many netizens have criticized the company via Twitter and other social media for its refusal to directly sell to Ai.

Critics pointed out that Lego may be trying to avoid jeopardizing its upcoming project to set up a Legoland theme park in Shanghai, China.

Ai is a well known artist and critic of the Chinese government. Four years ago, he was arrested and his passport confiscated due to his political statements. He spent almost three months in prison at that time. His right to travel was only restored this year after he was given back his passport.

TagsLego, Ai Weiwei, Lego refused Ai, Lego exhibit in Australia