Asian Self-Representation at World's Fairs

International expositions or worlds fairs are the largest and most important stage on which millions gather to experience, express, and respond to cultural differences. Asian Self-Representation at Worlds Fairs focuses on expressions of an empowered Asian self-representation at worlds fairs in the West after the so-called golden age of the exhibition. It examines the politics of representation and what happens within the imaginative worlds of Asian country pavilions, where the performative has become the dominant mode for imprinting directly on human bodies.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 318 pages
\n Publication date: 18 September 2020
\n Publisher: Amsterdam University Press
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International expositions, also known as world fairs, hold immense significance as the largest and most influential platforms where millions of people come together to directly engage with, express, and respond to the diverse cultural differences present in the world. Instead of solely examining the representation of Asia at the hands of colonizing powers, which has already been extensively studied, Asian Self-Representation at Worlds Fairs takes a unique approach by focusing on the expressions of empowered Asian self-representation at world fairs in the West after what is known as the "golden age" of exhibitions. This shift in the exhibitionary order, marked by a growing emphasis on generating experiences and emotions, opened up new possibilities for representation.

Within the imaginative worlds of Asian country pavilions, where the performative has become the dominant mode for imprinting directly on human bodies, this book delves into the politics of representation as well as the transformative effects of these performances. By examining case studies of national representation at selected fairs spanning a century, from 1915 to 2015, the book provides a comprehensive analysis of the ways in which Asia has been portrayed and interpreted at these global events.

Through its exploration of the politics of representation, Asian Self-Representation at Worlds Fairs sheds light on the power dynamics and hierarchies that shape how different cultures are portrayed and understood. It challenges the dominant narratives and stereotypes that have been perpetuated throughout history and highlights the agency and creativity of Asian individuals and communities in shaping their own representations.

Moreover, the book delves into the imaginative worlds of Asian country pavilions, where the performative has become the dominant mode for imprinting directly on human bodies. It explores the ways in which these performances create spaces for cultural exchange, hybridity, and the negotiation of identities. The pavilions serve as dynamic platforms for showcasing the rich heritage, traditions, and contemporary innovations of Asian countries, allowing visitors to engage with them on a personal and meaningful level.

In conclusion, Asian Self-Representation at Worlds Fairs is a groundbreaking work that offers a fresh perspective on the representation of Asia at world fairs. By focusing on the expressions of empowered Asian self-representation, the book challenges the traditional narratives and stereotypes and highlights the agency and creativity of Asian individuals and communities in shaping their own representations. It provides valuable insights into the politics of representation, the transformative effects of performances, and the imaginative worlds of Asian country pavilions. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex and multifaceted nature of cultural exchange and representation in the globalized world.

\n Weight: 640g\n
Dimension: 162 x 239 x 25 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9789462985636\n
Edition number: 0\n