Variational problems for the multiple integral , where and are studied. A new condition on g, called W1,p-quasiconvexity is introduced which generalizes in a natural way the quasiconvexity condition of C. B. Morrey, it being shown in particular to be necessary for sequential weak lower semicontinuity of in and for the existence of minimizers for certain related integrals. Counterexamples are given concerning the weak continuity properties of Jacobians in , p ⩽ n = m. An existence theorem for nonlinear elastostatics is proved under optimal growth hypotheses.