Globalization, the rise of China, and questions of identity and place in contemporary art from Taiwan

It is widely acknowledged that globalisation, increased mobility, and advancements in digital technology have radically altered our views and understanding of the world. The extent to which these global flows have threatened or destabilized the nation-state, and our sense of place within it is, however, open to debate. This paper explores the relationship between globalisation and changing perceptions of identity and place in contemporary art from Taiwan during the past decade. Drawing on a series of case-studies, I will examine how artists and museums are critically reflecting and responding to the effects of globalisation, and to the rise of China in the world, in insightful, innovative and strategic ways. The discussion will consider the geopolitical and cultural challenges artists in Taiwan face as they strive to capitalise on China’s economic progress and remain internationally visible, whilst retaining their sense of distinctiveness and autonomy.This paper was delivered in an international conference in which I was an invited speaker and it was held in association with the exhibition: Jie (Boundaries): Contemporary Art from Taiwan (https://museum.cornell.edu/exhibitions/jie-boundaries-contemporary-art-taiwan ) at the Johnson Museum of Art at Cornell University, United States