The book A Leaf Through History presents a significant art exhibition by Chang Yoong Chia, an artist known for his strong socio-political narratives and versatility in his artistic practice. He decided to re-interpret the Malaysian colonial history of cash crop plantations through batik as an art form for the first time in his artistic career. By doing so, he is not only deconstructing a period of Malaysian history by creating alternative views, but he is also deconstructing batik as a form of art and storytelling tool. In the show and with Yoong Chia, batik becomes more than a decorative textile, it transforms into a meaningful medium of expression for society. A Leaf Through History exhibition is documented in this book as an important contribution to reclaiming Malaysian colonial history by providing views from the perspectives of amongst others, ordinary plantation workers and migrants.

pp.96 colour plates #020226