In the World presents a collection of essays by Cape Town cultural analyst and art critic Ashraf Jamal focused on 24 South African artists working in painting, photography, sculpture and performance. Aimed at a wide, international audience, the texts reconfigure the national narrative of South African art within a broader African and global context. From identity politics to the boom of "African art" in a global contemporary art market, Jamal explores a variety of issues at the heart of South African art practice.

Artists discussed include Ed Young, Khaya Witbooi, Mary Sibande, Ricky Dyaloyi, Kate Gottgens, Georgina Gratrix, Nigel Mullins, Anton Kannemeyer, Pieter Hugo, Zanele Muholi, Mohau Modisakeng, Thania Petersen, Jaco Roux, Sam Nhlengethwa, Conrad Botes, Paul Edmunds, Francois Knoetze, Simphiwe Ndzube, Robin Rhode, Kemang Wa Lehulere, Wim Botha, Beth Diane Armstrong, Esther Mahlangu and Tony Gum.