https://thediplomat.com The Diplomat is a current-affairs magazine for the Asia-Pacific, with news and analysis on politics, security, business, technology and life across the region. Tue, 30 Jan 2024 12:00:56 +0900 en-US When it comes to getting the best out of the Asian art world, Clint Eastwood’s Harry Callahan said it right.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/05/make-my-day/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/05/make-my-day/ Wine lovers might not immediately think of Thailand as the place for a glass of red. One winery is trying to change that.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/05/thai-wine-weekends/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/05/thai-wine-weekends/ Chinese-American author Amy Chua’s book has shaken up the image of Asian moms—for good or for bad?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/05/tiger-mothers-to-be-celebrated/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/05/tiger-mothers-to-be-celebrated/ Asia’s most expensive high-end artwork is no longer limited to the eyes of the elite.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/05/art-watching-online/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/05/art-watching-online/ What are the consequences of art in China taking a backseat to economic progress and Western influence?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/05/zhu-wei-on-art-china/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/05/zhu-wei-on-art-china/ In Bangkok, one of Thailand’s top art universities is one of the best places to find home-grown talent.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/thai-art-in-bangkok/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/thai-art-in-bangkok/ Kyung-Sook Shin’s latest novel has hit it big in the US. So why has ‘Please Look After Mom’ been so successful?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/not-lost-in-translation/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/not-lost-in-translation/ Why wasn’t robot-loving Japan able to dispatch any useful specimens in the crucial weeks following the earthquake?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/japans-robot-love-hurts/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/japans-robot-love-hurts/ South Korean writer Kyung-Sook Shin’s novel is a runaway hit in the US. A new dimension of the Korean Wave?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/please-look-after-mom/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/please-look-after-mom/ Thailand’s capital offers many convenient spots for visitors wanting to get a feel for its vibrant arts and culture scene.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/modern-art-culture-in-bangkok/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/modern-art-culture-in-bangkok/ Though not one of Indonesia’s top travel destinations, a unique urban landscape makes Medan worth visiting.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/medans-architectural-allure/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/medans-architectural-allure/ A popular modern pastime in countries like China and Japan, karaoke’s roots may actually lie in ancient philosophy.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/karaoke-ancient-harmony/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/karaoke-ancient-harmony/ 90 cities around the world come together to help rebuild Japan. But how can creativity assist in disaster recovery?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/global-pechakucha-day/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/global-pechakucha-day/ From a pop concerts to handmade hats, relief efforts for victims of the earthquake and tsunami are going strong.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/creative-japan-aid-big-and-small/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/creative-japan-aid-big-and-small/ There are plenty of art spots to explore in Bangkok, but the centrally located Silom Galleria is a perfect place to start.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/a-whole-lot-of-art-in-bangkok/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/a-whole-lot-of-art-in-bangkok/ Experts following the recent ‘art crackdown’ in China suggest Ai draws a distinct line between his activism and art.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/4807/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/4807/ The popular writer’s first English release in years is coming. Fans are likely already on the edge of their seats.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/the-wait-for-murakamis-iq84/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/the-wait-for-murakamis-iq84/ Japan experiences a 7.1 magnitude aftershock exactly one month after the first quake. Tsunami warning issued, lifted.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/aftershock-tsunami-warning-in-japan/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/aftershock-tsunami-warning-in-japan/ One month after the earthquake and tsunami devastated parts of the country, moods remain sombre. Rightfully so?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/japan-a-sombre-one-month-anniversary/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/japan-a-sombre-one-month-anniversary/ A recent music festival highlighted unique music traditions from Kazakhstan—and one stand-out kobyz performance.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/music-of-asia-kazakhstan/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/music-of-asia-kazakhstan/ Tokyo is still dark from last month’s tragedy. But tsunami and earthquake victims are being kept in the light.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/the-art-of-not-forgetting/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/the-art-of-not-forgetting/ Nearly a decade since it was first published, Khaled Hosseini’s novel set in Afghanistan is as relevant as ever.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/the-kite-runner-now/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/the-kite-runner-now/ Artists from around the world come together for Japan following last month’s earthquake and tsunami.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/pop-art-fundraisers-for-japan/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/04/pop-art-fundraisers-for-japan/ A Japan youth performance project offers an alternative way of boosting young people’s self-esteem.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/music-for-confidence/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/music-for-confidence/ Embracing China isn’t just about shooting from behind a camera lens. Connecting with its people is key.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/a-photographers-china/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/a-photographers-china/ Gallerists and museums around the world come up with creative ways to help the victims of the Japan disaster.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/earthquake-tsunami-art-relief/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/earthquake-tsunami-art-relief/ Ulara Nakagawa recounts visiting Miyagi Prefecture, the area hardest hit by last week’s earthquake and tsunami.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/japan-tsunami-aftershock-video/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/japan-tsunami-aftershock-video/ Tokyo is still reeling from the devastating earthquake and tsunami. Art can help people in the healing process.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/tokyo-searching-for-comfort/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/tokyo-searching-for-comfort/ Ulara Nakagawa shares footage of one of the worst-hit areas from last week’s earthquake and tsunami.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/tsunami-aftermath-video/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/tsunami-aftermath-video/ Earthquake warnings, tsunami alerts and conflicting reports on nuclear plants make the journey to Sendai tense.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/making-progress/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/making-progress/ Stopping in Niigata on the way to the earthquake and tsunami-hit zone, things look normal. But looks can be deceiving.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/a-brave-face-on-a-crisis/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/a-brave-face-on-a-crisis/ Tokyo is still experiencing aftershocks following the 8.9 temblor. We’re collecting images taken by staff and readers.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/tokyo-earthquake-pictures/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/tokyo-earthquake-pictures/ Tomohiro Todoroki is an inspirational Japanese artist who uses unconventional events as vehicles for his art.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/art-and-automobiles/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/art-and-automobiles/ Chinese has the potential to become the next global language. Its rise has also made it an effective soft power tool.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/power-of-languages/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/power-of-languages/ A major auction taking place in Hong Kong this weekend is bound to add to the current wine buzz in Asia.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/march-rare-wine-auction/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/march-rare-wine-auction/ Confucius Institutes as vehicles for spreading Chinese propaganda? There’s little to support this notion.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/confucius-controversy/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/confucius-controversy/ Confucius Institutes are one of China’s most notable soft power initiatives. What is behind their success?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/a-hearts-and-minds-thing/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/a-hearts-and-minds-thing/ Japan’s ‘soft and cute’ contemporary art scene could do with some more political and sexual flair.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/in-need-of-sensuality-and-hype/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/in-need-of-sensuality-and-hype/ A major revival in interest over Confucianism in China could change the image of Confucius Institutes.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/the-confucian-comeback/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/the-confucian-comeback/ Korean pop keeps growing in popularity. Why are K-pop acts leaving their J-pop peers behind?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/k-pop-versus-j-pop/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/03/k-pop-versus-j-pop/ Confucius Institutes have little to do with the ancient philosopher after which they’re named. But does it matter?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/confucius-whats-in-a-name/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/confucius-whats-in-a-name/ Emerging comic artist Wisut Ponnimit stands out for his positive themes, talent—and for not being Japanese.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/an-unexpected-manga-artist/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/an-unexpected-manga-artist/ The White House’s first Filipino and first female executive chef specializes in ethnic American food.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/comerford-serves-white-house/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/comerford-serves-white-house/ Works by over 400 artists from 5 Japanese art schools have come together at one Tokyo art museum.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/five-art-universities-at-nact/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/five-art-universities-at-nact/ From Gothic Lolitas to French maids, Japan’s incredible fashion evolution is now being led by its young females.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/japans-fashion-forward-subcultures/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/japans-fashion-forward-subcultures/ Judging by recent rankings, airport operators in the West might have a thing or two to learn from their Asian cousins.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/asias-airports-soar/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/asias-airports-soar/ Egypt has shown the potential importance of soft power. Asia doesn’t want to be left behind.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/21st-century-asian-soft-power/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/21st-century-asian-soft-power/ Art is a reflection of society. Does a lack of emerging talent from top art schools reflect a passionless Japan?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/in-search-of-new-japanese-artists/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/in-search-of-new-japanese-artists/ From samurai classics to J-horror, Japanese cinema is a cultural force still to be reckoned with.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/japanese-cinema-more-than-anime/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/japanese-cinema-more-than-anime/ A unique initiative emphasizes how the arts will become increasingly important in creating bridges of understanding.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/creative-voice-of-islam-in-asia/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/creative-voice-of-islam-in-asia/ Despite an emerging wine culture in India, high prices of imports are limiting the potential of the ‘healthier’ spirit.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/wines-appeal-simmering-in-india/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/wines-appeal-simmering-in-india/ In Japan students and artists alike find it difficult to deviate from the norm. Both art and a sense of community can help.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/one-job-two-settings/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/one-job-two-settings/ A new exhibit will showcase more than 30 richly painted miniatures that illustrate scenes from a Persian national epic.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/a-princes-manuscript-unbound/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/a-princes-manuscript-unbound/ A ‘second generation Korean Wave’ has reportedly hit Japan, powered by fresh K-pop exports. But is it all good?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/korean-re-boom-in-japan/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/korean-re-boom-in-japan/ What’s behind the increasing popularity of Asian culture worldwide? Generations of ‘ethnic assertion,’ for one.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/mainstreaming-asia/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/mainstreaming-asia/ One of the worst things gallery staff can do is talk excessively. It’s key to let viewers and art connect in silence.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/let-the-art-talk/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/let-the-art-talk/ Will a 3-D Hollywood horror film be well-received enough to draw attention toward South Korea’s comic scene?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/priest-to-promote-korean-comics/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/02/priest-to-promote-korean-comics/ It may sound kitschy, but this emerging Korean artist’s food-based fashion is actually far from it.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/sung-yeonjus-edible-fashion/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/sung-yeonjus-edible-fashion/ The annual Jaipur Literature Festival was one enhanced by one-of-a-kind hero encounters and even a little bit of drama.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/literary-animals-teem-in-jaipur/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/literary-animals-teem-in-jaipur/ The atmosphere of an art exhibit can make or break the experience for a visitor. Japan’s art world should take note.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/art-in-the-best-surroundings/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/art-in-the-best-surroundings/ Two remaining contenders for the 2011 Academy Awards highlight crucial issues facing the region and its people.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/asia-pacific-still-in-oscar-running/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/asia-pacific-still-in-oscar-running/ Western beauty standards seem to favor tanned skin to pale. Is the grass just always greener on the other side?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/the-many-shades-of-beauty/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/the-many-shades-of-beauty/ Asians spend billions a year on products and treatments to ‘whiten’ their skin. Is it time to turn the focus to inner beauty?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/natural-vs-light-a-beauty-controversy/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/natural-vs-light-a-beauty-controversy/ Seamless or even spray-on attire may not be too far away in fashion’s future. Will Asian consumers be driving progress?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/asia-in-the-evolving-fashion-world/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/asia-in-the-evolving-fashion-world/ If you want to expand your overall knowledge and enjoyment of art, here are two expert ideas for getting started.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/more-art-savvy-tips/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/more-art-savvy-tips/ As one of the most dynamic regions in the world, there’s lots more change to come for Asia, including in fashion.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/a-dynamic-fashion-world/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/a-dynamic-fashion-world/ What is the current state of the animation industry in India? A little ‘behind’ globally, but maybe not for long.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/indias-animated-future-to-come/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/indias-animated-future-to-come/ The artist’s $1.2 million Shanghai studio’s been torn down. What larger ‘trend’ might this gov’t move indicate?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/bringing-down-ai-weiwei/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/bringing-down-ai-weiwei/ Ashoka the Hero is a departure from mythological story-lines and poorly dubbed Japanese anime imports.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/ashoka-indias-1st-animated-superhero/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/ashoka-indias-1st-animated-superhero/ If one of your 2011 resolutions is to learn more about art, here are two expert ideas for getting started on a ‘savvy’ New Year.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/two-ways-to-get-art-savvy/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/two-ways-to-get-art-savvy/ How has this fast-rising young designer become a source of inspiration and pride for many Taiwanese?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/jason-wu-taiwans-pride/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/jason-wu-taiwans-pride/ A Tokyo-based architect’s unique initiative for children might provide hope through a ‘primitive future’ style.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/architecture-for-autism/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/architecture-for-autism/ Asian-American fashion designers are big in the fashion world now. How might fame be harder for them to cope with?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/asian-american-fashion-wave/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/asian-american-fashion-wave/ There’s an interesting story behind the centuries-old Chinese art piece that set a new all-time record in 2010.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/2010s-priciest-chinese-artwork/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/2010s-priciest-chinese-artwork/ A traditional Asian art form is experiencing a comeback thanks to some modern artists…and their unique ‘tweaks.’

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/miniature-painting-animated/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/miniature-painting-animated/ Comics are getting a boost thanks to the iPad. Does this mean Korean comics will now get a share of the spotlight too?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/will-manhwa-catch-manga/ https://thediplomat.com/2011/01/will-manhwa-catch-manga/ Malaysian artist Yeoh Kean Thai’s new art reflects both his own unique life story and environmental threats today.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/code-red-art-yeoh-kean-thai/ https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/code-red-art-yeoh-kean-thai/ This often forgotten Japanese city to the north is surprisingly modern, friendly and design-savvy — and well worth a visit.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/sapporo-japan-worth-a-visit/ https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/sapporo-japan-worth-a-visit/ Female Korean pop groups are taking off overseas—especially in Japan. Is K-Pop success thanks to more leg…and talent?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/japan-loves-its-leggy-cool-k-pop/ https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/japan-loves-its-leggy-cool-k-pop/ There’ll be plenty of new arts and culture topics for 2011 when The New Emissary returns from a brief holiday hiatus.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/a-brief-holiday-hiatus/ https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/a-brief-holiday-hiatus/ Will the ‘Asian Look’ have staying power with Asians themselves now they’re poised to become top consumers?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/asianness-in-fashion/ https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/asianness-in-fashion/ The ‘East meets West’ theme has been done to death by the fashion magazines. What other stories are out there?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/a-light-on-fashion-and-asia/ https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/a-light-on-fashion-and-asia/ Ideas for children’s gifts that’ll teach, won’t easily be tired of, and that might make a lifelong impact.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/5-artful-holiday-gifts-for-kids/ https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/5-artful-holiday-gifts-for-kids/ Despite a tepid critical reception so far, people will go see the film adaptation of one of Japan’s most revered books.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/norwegian-wood-ok-and-pretty/ https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/norwegian-wood-ok-and-pretty/ There’s been remarkable change in New Delhi’s cultural landscape—including in dining, drinking habits and food stores.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/a-delhi-culture-report/ https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/a-delhi-culture-report/ An art lover’s holiday wish list goes beyond apparel and iPads and include things that will benefit the whole art world.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/art-lovers-holiday-wish-list/ https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/art-lovers-holiday-wish-list/ A new project looks at denim’s popularity around the world and highlights the link between what we wear and identity.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/a-global-denim-project/ https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/a-global-denim-project/ They’ve been popular for decades in China, Japan and Korea. Are noodles now set to become a new Indian staple?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/a-noodle-invasion-in-india/ https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/a-noodle-invasion-in-india/ New trends are turning Japan’s hopes for a greener future into a reality. And it’s capital has gotten an extra morale boost.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/tokyo-gets-green-nod/ https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/tokyo-gets-green-nod/ High-profile Asian artists and their pricey works make the biggest international art news headlines. Is this a bad thing?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/missing-art-coverage/ https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/missing-art-coverage/ Three contemporary galleries located in three popular Asian cities, have proven track records in finding young talent.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/3-must-see-asian-galleries/ https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/3-must-see-asian-galleries/ Will the changing ways of food consumption in India also mean change for society on a larger scale?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/a-new-indian-foodscape/ https://thediplomat.com/2010/12/a-new-indian-foodscape/ Obesity and diabetes are just some health issues that may be arising from India’s contemporary food landscape.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2010/11/indias-looming-health-issue/ https://thediplomat.com/2010/11/indias-looming-health-issue/ The world might be misinformed on what ‘Indian food’ really is. But the secret to its appeal may lie in its mysteriousness.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2010/11/indian-food-and-the-west/ https://thediplomat.com/2010/11/indian-food-and-the-west/ Does Indian food in particular have the ability to nourish people with a sense of home and community?

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2010/11/indias-food-that-binds/ https://thediplomat.com/2010/11/indias-food-that-binds/ Rule of thumb: If you visit enough galleries, you’re bound to find something good. And the ‘eye’ of the gallerist counts.

]]> https://thediplomat.com/2010/11/eye-of-the-gallerist/ https://thediplomat.com/2010/11/eye-of-the-gallerist/