Includes bibliographical references and index.

Frameworks and contexts -- The artist as cultural and political activist -- War, violence and divided societies -- Globalisation and identity: the challenge of a globalising world -- Worldmaking in art -- Conclusion.

Contemporary Asian art has had a remarkable impact on global art practice, in addition to serving as a record of the region's history from decolonisation to the present. Many Asian artists are deeply concerned about what it means to be human and to contribute to the development of a sustainable society, as well as having a sustained commitment to making art. This book, written at the start of the 'Asian century', focuses on the contexts and conditions which have helped to shape both art practice and postcolonial society in the region. One of the first surveys of contemporary Asian art, it uses case studies of key artists to discuss the work in relation to issues of human rights, social and environmental well-being and creativity. As such, it makes an important contribution to studies of contemporary Asian art and art history.