Present a richly illustrated introduction to the history of the major styles of Balinese painting. Individual essays examine some of the important characteristics unique to classical puppet figure works, transitional style paintings, and different regional developments of art found on the island. Other sections cover contemporary paintings by artists from Bali, other parts Indonesia, and abroad. All of these styles are presented here as developments in the broader context of Indonesian art history.

For centuries the island of Bali has produced some of the finest examples of religious art. Under the influence of Western aesthetics, various seculer styles emerged which combined indigenous and foreign elements in several different ways. Formal art education in the schools of Indonesia also have produced some interesting styles with more international perspectives. Artists from all over the world have long been attracted to Bali for its dynamic culture and scenic wonders.