This course examines the global circuits of contemporary art from 1980 to the present through a consideration of various biennales, triennials, and global art fairs in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. The class begins by investigating two landmark exhibitions – Primitivism in 20th Century Art (New York, 1985) and Magiciens de la Terre (Paris, 1989) – in order to consider the perception and presentation of so-called “non-western art” and to broadly historicize present-day “global” art practice. Topics will include the reappraisal of the western/non-western division, the importance of artistic identity, and the promotion of art as cultural ambassador.