Why Is That Art?: Aesthetics and Criticism of Contemporary Art

Terry Barrett

Book cover for Why Is That Art?: Aesthetics and Criticism of Contemporary Art
Book cover for Why Is That Art?: Aesthetics and Criticism of Contemporary Art

Why Is That Art?: Aesthetics and Criticism of Contemporary Art

Why Is That Art?: Aesthetics and Criticism of Contemporary Art

Terry Barrett

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Description

Why is that art? Why is it in an art museum? Who says it's art? Why is it good?

Why Is That Art?, Third Edition, introduces students to theories of art through the presentation of contemporary works that include abstract and representational painting, animated film, monumental sculpture, performance art, photographs, relational art, and video installations. Ideal for courses in aesthetics, art theory, art criticism, and the philosophy of art, this unique book provides students with a newfound appreciation for contemporary art, scholarship, and reasoned argumentation.

About the Author

Terry Barrett is Professor Emeritus at The Ohio State University and former Professor of Art History and Art Education at the University of North Texas.

Critical Reviews

"I have the highest praise for Barrett's clear and concise text. The information is approachable and interesting to students who have little introduction to contemporary art theory, history, or criticism. The questions offered at the ends of the chapters offer thoughtful perspectives for further discussion, inquiry, and reference." --Franc Nunoo-Quarcoo, University of Michigan

"I like Why Is That Art? because it explains how to look, understand, and judge contemporary art through engaging discussions of selected stimulating art works. It highlights the reasons for accepting some works of art by merging a variety of established theories with convincing points of view." --Rihab Kassatly Bagnole, Savannah College of Art & Design

"Barrett's text serves as an ideal introduction to aesthetics and art criticism. The text really helps students in raising awareness of the complexity of the contemporary art scene and underlying ideas and theories that shape it." --Zdenko Krtic, Auburn University

Publishing Information

Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA
Pub date: 2017-02-23
Length: 304 pages

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