The magazine first launched as "Art and Asia Pacific" in March 1993 in Australia. Published quarterly, it began more as an academic journal than a standard consumer magazine and each issue would focus on a different country or theme. While the first issue was published by Janet Gough, it was then published and edited by Dynah Dysart/Fine Art Press Pty Limited, Sydney, until October 2003. There are two inaugural issues both bearing Volume 1 No 1. The first issue (52 pages) was dated March 1993, while the second issue (100 pages)also bearing Vol 1 No 1 and mention of it being the inaugural volume was issued in December 1993. It was then purchased by Gang Zhao and Wendy Siegelman and moved to New York.