Why is this art? Why is it in a museum? Who says it's art? What makes it considered good? Author Terry Barrett raises these and similar questions about contemporary art, drawing on four important sources: a wide variety of engaging artwork examples from different fields, the artists who created the works, art philosophers, and art critics. Why Is This Art? introduces students to established theories through contemporary art examples including abstract and realistic paintings, monumental sculptures, performance art, video installations, films, and photographs.

With 71 images in total, this book will help the reader:

• Gain knowledge about established art theories.

• Apply these theories to contemporary artworks.

• Visualize abstract ideas through the given examples.

• Develop their thoughts on the concepts they have learned.

• Understand contemporary art terms with the glossary at the end of the book.

• Interpret postmodern art with pleasure.

"A wonderful book! Terry Barrett masterfully unpacks complex ideas vital to understanding contemporary art and writes his book in language readily accessible to students."
Patrick Luber, University of North Dakota

"A comprehensive, well-structured, and brilliantly executed introduction to theories that illuminate the reader in understanding contemporary art and its discourses. The book significantly distinguishes itself from similar ones through the different artists discussed."
Derek Murrary, University of California, Santa Cruz

"This book is absolutely perfect. A great book for my undergraduate students."
Irene Nero, Southeastern Louisiana University
(From the Promotional Bulletin)