The Caribbean is comprised of more than twenty countries--Bermuda, Cuba, Jamaica, Haiti, the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico among them. Each has its own identity, yet they share a cultural unity despite geographic, ethnic, linguistic and political diversity. A mixture of African, Amerindian, Asian and European origins define the eclectic Creole culture which, from the period of Colonialism to the present, has also witnessed a massive diaspora. This is the first book to present and discuss the diverse, fascinating and highly accomplished work of Caribbean artists, whether they are indigenous or from the diaspora, whether it is popular or "high" culture, rural or urban, politically radical or religious.Included are internationally recognized artists such as Wifredo Lam, Ana Mendieta, Herve Telemaque, Sonia Boyce, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and more than one hundred others. 177 illus., 76 in color.

"A thematic and chronological approach...[that] results in a cohesive examination and definition of Caribbean art." --Nation