Who's Afraid of Contemporary Art

Who's Afraid of Contemporary Art
ISBN: 9780500292747
Publication Date: 1 April 2017

A smart and playful introduction to the often-mystifying world of contemporary art

What is contemporary art What makes it "contemporary" What is it for And why is it so expensive From museums and the art market to biennales and the next big thing, Who's Afraid of Contemporary Art offers concise and pointed insights into today's art scene, decoding "Artspeak," explaining what curators do, demystifying conceptual art, exploring emerging art markets, and more. The authors' playful explanations draw on key artworks, artists, and events from around the globe, including extreme Chinese performances, the artist Damien Hirst, and the expanding art markets in Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. An A-Z arrangement of themes take the reader through every aspect of contemporary art, from "Art, what is it" to "Money, money, money!!," and art outside the art market with "Zoning out."

Who's Afraid of Contemporary Art is filled with behind-the-scenes information on the contemporary art world, and is the perfect gallery companion and go-to guide on the next big thing.

About the Author

Kyung An is assistant curator for Asian art at the Guggenheim Museum, New York. She has also worked at Meekyoung Shin Studio, the Hayward and Serpentine galleries, London, and has an MA from the Courtauld Institute of Art.

Jessica Cerasi is exhibitions manager at Carroll/Fletcher gallery in London. She has worked for Hayward Touring, Christie's, the Guggenheim, and Hayward Gallery. She holds an MA in art history from University College London.