Art Worlds, 25th Anniversary Edition / Edition 1

by Howard S. Becker

Overview

This classic sociological examination of art as collective action explores the cooperative network of suppliers, performers, dealers, critics, and consumers who—along with the artist—"produce" a work of art. Howard S. Becker looks at the conventions essential to this operation and, prospectively, at the extent to which art is shaped by this collective activity. The book is thoroughly illustrated and updated with a new dialogue between Becker and eminent French sociologist Alain Pessin about the extended social system in which art is created, and with a new preface in which the author talks about his own process in creating this influential work.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780520256361
Publisher:	University of California Press
Publication date:	04/08/2008
Edition description:	First Edition
Pages:	440
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 1.10(d)

About the Author

Howard S. Becker is author of many books including Telling About Society, Writing for Social Scientists, and Outsiders.

Table of Contents

List of Illustrations
Preface to the 25th Anniversary Edition
Preface to the First Edition
Acknowledgments

1 Art Worlds and Collective Activity
2 Conventions
3 Mobilizing Resources
4 Distributing Art Works
5 Aesthetics, Aestheticians, and Critics
6 Art and the State
7 Editing
8 Integrated Professionals, Mavericks, Folk Artists,
and Naive Artists
9 Arts and Crafts
10 Change in Art Worlds
11 Reputation
12 Epilogue to the 25th Anniversary Edition

Bibliography
Index

Editorial Reviews

"The clearest, most articulate, elegant, and coherent sociology of art to appear in a long time."

American Journal of Sociology

As timely as ever.

The Nation

"This is an important book, very well written, beautifully produced, and bound to be much read and talked about in the world of sociology."

Social Forces

"Unusual and excellent. . . . Discusses everything from aesthetics, criticism, censorship, artistic mavericks, and professionalism to authenticity, conformity, commercial distribution, and changes in art. . . . Fascinating."

Christian Science Monitor