In his compelling book, Abstract Art: A Global History, art historian Pepe Karmel challenges the traditional narratives that have dominated discussions of abstract art. Rather than focusing solely on formal innovations or a limited selection of European and North American artists, Karmel emphasizes the broader context in which abstract art has emerged. He illustrates how artists worldwide have utilized abstraction to express personal, social, and political experiences.

The book is structured around five thematic chapters—‘Bodies’, ‘Landscapes’, ‘Cosmologies’, ‘Architectures’, and ‘Signs and Patterns’—each offering a unique lens through which to view abstract art. Karmel's exploration begins with figurative works and expands into a diverse array of topics, revealing the profound connections between abstract art and the realities of the world we inhabit.

By showcasing a variety of artists, from the well-known to the underrepresented, Karmel encourages readers to reconsider the boundaries of abstract art. The interplay of selected artworks throughout the text highlights both surprising affinities and significant differences, enriching the reader's understanding of this captivating genre.