Dinah Dysart

Conceptual and aesthetic exchange is the objective of this new quaterly journal ART and AsiaPacific. Its subject is the contemporary visual arts of the Asian and Pacific regions.

This first issue focuses on the Philippines and art critic and curator, Julie Ewington, is the editor of this material. She has selected a group of writers from the region who discuss current art practice and highlight issues of concern. Contemporary art is contextualised, future directions are predicted and solutions to current problems are proffered. Alice G. Guillermo analyses the role of imagery and symbolism in the aftermath of the Marcos regime. Emmanuel Torres argues for a new definition of internationalism and Ana P. Labrador writes of the role played by national and local museums in establishing regional identities. Rachel Mayo makes a passionate plea in support of indigenous art and the use of indigenous materials. There is also an interview with Maria Cruz, an Australian-Filipina artist who is exhibiting in Manila this year.

The art of other countries in the region is represented in essays, commentaries and book reviews. The vitality of contemporary Aboriginal art is affirmed and the contribution of Maori culture to contemporary art is predicated through scrutiny of the art of Robert Jahnke. A report on an international symposium brings the visual arts of the Pacific region into focus. Yuko Hasegawa, one of the few female curators in Japan, is questioned on the changing museum and contemporary art scene. The need for Hong Kong cultural heritage to be identified is brought to attention in a commentary piece by the exhibition director for the Hong Kong Arts Centre.

ART and AsiaPacific will be published quarterly and will showcase the most interesting contemporary art of today. It will provide a forum for discussion of ideas, images and techniques. There is much to be learnt about, and from, each other. ART and AsiaPacific will provide detailed regional coverage on a regular basis and will also focus on themes of universal significance. The use of indigenous materials, concern for the environment and the desire to maintain regional characteristics are just some of the subjects of common interest which will be covered in forthcoming issues.

Advertising in ART and AsiaPacific will ensure documentation in regional art histories and a place in international appraisals of the art of our time.

ART and AsiaPacific is distributed in Australia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand and the USA.

Readers are urged to subscribe to ensure regular delivery of ART and AsiaPacific. Special discount rates are offered to readers who support the journal from the outset and these details are outlined on page 96.

We intend that ART and AsiaPacific will become the site for lively debate on the visual arts and essential reading matter for all who wish to keep up to date with the most exciting developments in contemporary art.