Forecast Form: Art in the Caribbean Diaspora, 1990s-Today

Caribbean art is a diasporic, fugitive phenomenon that reveals new modes of thinking about identity and place. Forecast Form features scholarly essays, illustrated plate sections, and texts focused on an intergenerational group of 37 artists working across the Americas and Europe. It reveals the region as a place where the past, present, and future meet, where continuous exchanges forecast what is to come while remaining grounded in the histories that shape the present.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 10 January 2023
Publisher: Distributed Art Publishers

The 1990s were a transformative era marked by significant political shifts, including the collapse of the Eastern Bloc and the establishment of trade agreements that continue to shape our global landscape today. Emerging from this pivotal decade, Forecast Form takes us on a journey into the present, illuminating emerging forms, materials, and processes that offer fresh perspectives on identity and place. This comprehensive volume features scholarly essays alongside stunning visual representations, showcasing the work of a diverse intergenerational group of 37 artists hailing from across the Americas and Europe. By challenging conventional notions of contemporary art in the Caribbean, Forecast Form unveils the region as a crossroads where history, present, and future converge, fostering continuous exchanges that predict the future while remaining firmly rooted in the rich tapestry of past experiences.

The artists featured in this groundbreaking survey include renowned figures such as Candida Alvarez, Firelei Báez, Álvaro Barrios, Frank Bowling, Sandra Brewster, María Magdalena Campos-Pons, Donna Conlon, and Jonathan Harker. Each artist brings their unique perspective and artistic approach, contributing to the rich tapestry of Caribbean art.

One of the key themes explored in Forecast Form is the concept of diasporic and fugitive phenomena. The Caribbean region has a rich history of migration, and many artists draw upon their experiences of displacement and cultural hybridity to create their work. This exploration of identity and place is evident in the diverse range of artistic styles and techniques employed by the artists, from abstract expressionism to installation art and beyond.

Another notable aspect of this volume is the emphasis on intergenerational collaboration. The artists featured in Forecast Form have worked together across generations, fostering a sense of continuity and dialogue within the Caribbean art community. This collaboration not only contributes to the evolution of artistic practices but also highlights the importance of passing on cultural knowledge and heritage to future generations.

The essays included in Forecast Form provide valuable insights into the historical, cultural, and political contexts that shape Caribbean art. Contributors from various fields, including art history, cultural studies, and sociology, offer a comprehensive examination of the region's artistic traditions and contemporary developments. These essays not only enhance our understanding of Caribbean art but also contribute to broader discussions about diasporic identity, cultural exchange, and the role of art in shaping society.

In conclusion, Forecast Form is a groundbreaking exploration of contemporary art in the Caribbean, offering a fresh perspective on the region's rich cultural heritage and its place in the global art scene. Through its interdisciplinary approach and rich visual content, this volume invites us to reimagine contemporary art in the Caribbean and appreciate its unique contributions to the world of art.

Weight: 1316g
Dimension: 215 x 282 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781636810614