Art Theory: A Very Short Introduction

This book provides the ideal introduction to thinking about art. Cynthia Freeland explains why innovation and controversy in art are constantly in the headlines, and why it matters. She discusses the relationship of art with beauty, culture, money, sex, and new technology, and draws on examples from Rembrandt, Goya, and Damien Hirst to African nail fetishes, Indian Pueblo dancing, and MTV.
Explains why innovation and controversy are valued in the arts, bringing together philosophy, art theory, and many examples. This work discusses blood, beauty, culture, money, sex, web sites, and research on the brain's role in perceiving art. It is suitable for the public, introductory students, and teachers in the arts.
About the Series: Oxford's Very Short Introductions offers concise and original introductions to a wide range of subjects--from Islam to Sociology, Politics to Classics, and Literary Theory to History. Not simply a textbook of definitions, each volume provides trenchant and provocative--yet always balanced and complete--discussions of the central issues in a given topic. Every Very Short Introduction gives a readable evolution of the subject in question, demonstrating how it has developed and influenced society. Whatever the area of study, whatever the topic that fascinates the reader, the series has a handy and affordable guide that will likely prove indispensable.