This book extends a theory of art that addresses the present era's shift towards global pluralism. By focusing on extrinsic rather than intrinsic qualities of art, this book helps viewers evaluate art across cultural boundaries. Art can be universally classified by an evaluation of its guiding narrative, and can be understood and judged through hermeneutical methods. Since artists engage culture through various local, transnational, and emerging global narratives, it is difficult to decipher what standards are used for evaluation, and which authoritative body evaluates the work. This book implements a narrative-hermeneutical approach to properly classify an artwork and establish its meaning and value.

Introduction

Part 1: A Global Pluralistic Age

1. The Global Pluralistic Condition

1. The Effects of Globalism on Art and Aesthetics

1. The Glocal Artist as Transnational Traveler

Part 2: A Global Theory of Art

1. A Decentralized Anti-Essentialist Theory of Art
2. Evaluating Successful Art in a Pluralistic Artworld

1. Global Engagements with Contemporary Art

Conclusion