Beyond the Page: South Asian Miniatures and Britain, 1600 to now

A book about the impact of South Asian miniature painting on contemporary art, from the sixteenth century onwards, and the role of Britain in these developments. It explores the traditions of South Asian miniature painting, which have been reclaimed and reinvented by modern and contemporary artists, and features works from the Victoria & Albert Museum, the British Library, the British Museum, the Ashmolean, the Bodleian Library and the Royal Collection Trust.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 05 October 2023
Publisher: Philip Wilson Publishers Ltd

A captivating journey into the profound influence of South Asian miniature painting on contemporary art is unveiled in this captivating book. Spanning from the sixteenth century onwards, it explores the dynamic interplay between contemporary art and the rich traditions of miniature painting found in South Asia. Britain plays a pivotal role in these artistic developments, serving as a hub for the appreciation and preservation of these artistic treasures. This groundbreaking publication is the first to comprehensively examine the miniature painting tradition across time and borders, inviting readers to marvel at the remarkable innovations of both historic and contemporary artists from South Asia.

As we delve into the pages of this book, we are invited to appreciate the intricate formal, technical, and conceptual advancements of these exceptional artists. Their works serve as a testament to the enduring power of art to challenge cultural norms and question power dynamics.

The British Isles are home to some of the world's most remarkable collections of South Asian paintings, with many of these masterpieces housed in institutions such as the Victoria & Albert Museum, the British Library, the British Museum, the Ashmolean, the Bodleian Library, and the Royal Collection Trust. These collections not only showcase the artistic brilliance of South Asian artists but also provide valuable insights into the complex histories of empire and globalization.

Furthermore, this book delves into the fascinating process of how these collections were acquired and their central role in British and South Asian art histories. It sheds light on the cultural exchange, trade, and patronage that shaped the development of these artistic traditions. It also demonstrates how modern and contemporary artists have reclaimed and reinvented the miniature painting tradition, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression through experimental forms such as installation, sculpture, and film.

While miniature painting once served as a cultural resistance against colonial rule in the early twentieth century, artists continue to find contemporary relevance in the possibilities offered by this tradition. Beyond the Page showcases the work of artists who engage with the miniature tradition in innovative and thought-provoking ways, blurring the boundaries between traditional and modern art forms.

In conclusion, A Journey into the World of South Asian Miniature Painting is a must-read for anyone interested in art, culture, and history. It offers a captivating exploration of the profound impact of South Asian miniature painting on contemporary art, shedding light on the rich traditions and innovative practices that have shaped this artistic landscape. Through its rich illustrations and insightful narratives, this book invites readers to appreciate the beauty and complexity of this remarkable painting tradition while also engaging with the broader themes of culture, power, and globalization.

Weight: 1124g
Dimension: 280 x 226 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781781301258