Water Histories of South Asia: The Materiality of Liquescence

This book explores the intersections between water systems and the phenomenology of visual cultures in early modern, colonial, and contemporary South Asia, covering disciplines such as literary studies, environmental humanities, sustainable design, urban planning, and media studies. It examines how material cultures of water generate technological and aesthetic acts of envisioning geographies and intervenes in political, social, and cultural discourses.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 316 pages
Publication date: 31 March 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate intersections between water systems and the phenomenology of visual cultures in early modern, colonial, and contemporary South Asia. By bringing together esteemed contributions from artists, architects, curators, and scholars, the volume explores the profound connections between the environmental and the cultural, situating water within a vast relational domain. Spanning diverse disciplines such as literary studies, environmental humanities, sustainable design, urban planning, and media studies, the chapters investigate how material cultures of water elicit technological and aesthetic acts of envisioning geographies, while also making interventions within political, social, and cultural discourses. A critical interjection in the sociologies of water in the subcontinent, this book fosters a dialogue between art history and current debates on climate change by examining the artistic, architectural, engineering, religious, scientific, and environmental facets of water from the 16th century to the present.

This groundbreaking work stands as one of the first books in South Asia's art, architecture, and visual history to intertwine the ecological with the aesthetic within the emerging field of eco art history. The volume holds immense interest for scholars and general readers alike, encompassing fields such as art history, Islamic studies, South Asian studies, urban studies, architecture, geography, history, and environmental studies. Additionally, it resonates with activists, curators, art critics, and those engaged in water management.

The book's chapters delve into the diverse ways in which water material cultures generate technological and aesthetic practices that shape the perception and understanding of geographies. By examining the artistic, architectural, engineering, religious, scientific, and environmental dimensions of water, the volume offers a multi-faceted perspective on its significance in shaping South Asian societies and cultures. Through its comprehensive analysis, the book sheds light on the complex relationships between water, power, identity, and cultural practices, providing valuable insights into the historical and contemporary dynamics of water management and conservation in the region.

Moreover, this book serves as a valuable resource for educators and students interested in exploring the intersections between water, culture, and the environment. It offers a rich tapestry of interdisciplinary perspectives that can be used to enhance classroom discussions, research projects, and interdisciplinary studies. By promoting a deeper understanding of the ecological and cultural dimensions of water, this book contributes to the growing body of knowledge on sustainable development, environmental justice, and the preservation of cultural heritage in South Asia.

In conclusion, this book is a groundbreaking contribution to the field of eco art history and South Asian studies. By exploring the intricate intersections between water systems and the phenomenology of visual cultures, it offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary understanding of water's role in shaping South Asian societies and cultures. Through its rich content, interdisciplinary approach, and valuable insights, this book will be of interest to scholars, researchers, activists, and anyone seeking to understand the complex dynamics of water, culture, and the environment in South Asia.

Weight: 612g
Dimension: 246 x 189 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367786106