An engaging account of today s contemporary art world that features original articles by leading international art historians, critics, curators, and artists, introducing varied perspectives on the most important debates and discussions happening around the world.

The contemporary art world has expanded exponentially--in both size and complexity--over the last two decades, leading to a general uncertainty as to what matters and why. Contemporary Art: 1989 to the Present provides an unparalleled resource for students, artists, scholars, and art enthusiasts who are eager to navigate today's art world. It is the first collection of its kind to bring together fresh perspectives from leading international art historians, critics, curators, and artists for a comprehensive discussion of what contemporary art is today.

Divided into fourteen thematic clusters, each section presents three essays that offer a kaleidoscope of lively and expert viewpoints on each topic. Topics include globalization, formalism, technology, participation, agency, biennials, activism, fundamentalism, judgment, markets, and art schools, and scholarship. These clusters organize material in distinct and overlapping ways, allowing readers to customize their approach to their needs.

With up-to-date research concerns as well as more enduring topics, this text will provoke lively discussion regarding contemporary art, its study, and its historiography. Contemporary Art: 1989 to the Present provides a much-needed examination of the unique contemporary situation, and an encapsulation of a complex intellectual zeitgeist.