Whilst studying arts at the O.U. Many years ago, this book was on our recommended reading list and indeed is an excellent collection of edited essays form many key theorists and writers on all things art and its relationship with modern and post-modern culture. Particularly illuminating (albeit abridged) essays include texts by noted writers :Chomsky, Adorno, Brecht, Benjamin and Hebdige amongst as part of 32 separate essays that cover all of the major important issues that confront where art stands in contemporary society.

Just one minor caveat however is that the text is small and can be pretty difficult to read but many influential
/ historical "classic" insights from the above key writers plus many new important contributions from writers on post-modernism,feminism,the role of the avant-garde and authority etc. etc. Indispensable for students, artists, cultural commentators as both serious text book and occasional collection for dipping into for inspiration and insight and hence is one of those books in my permanent library.

So, in a word though an excellent book for the art enthusiast. ( )