Originally published: Paris : Flammarion, 1987, in French with title: L'art contemporain en France

I: At last, the museum appropriates an object that remains elusive
II: The work of art in the greater scheme of things
III: The artist in the world
IV: The definition of the work of art
V: From "everything is art" to everything is deceptive
VI: Beyond the avant-gardes and back again
VII: The society of the museum
VIII: Virtual works in a fragmented artistic field
IX: The triumph of contemporary art?

Available for the first time in English, an anecdotal review of the artistic movements that have taken place in France throughout the past four decades places key trends against a backdrop of the social and cultural changes that have occurred both within the country and internationally.
A comprehensive review of the artistic movements that have taken place in France from the 1960s to the present, this study benefits from the anecdotes and personal memories of its author, Catherine Millet. The internationally respected art critic, who was herself an active participant in these movements, breathes life into this factual chronology of the contemporary art scene in France. She exposes the often unexpected links between movements by underscoring their contradictions and taking into consideration the social and cultural changes that have occurred since the 1960s in France and across the globe. An extensive reference, this book provides the keys to understanding the international contemporary art scene as a whole. Contemporary Art in France serves as an historical essay, offering a profound analysis of the prevailing tendencies and characteristics of art of the past forty years. Available for the first time in English, the book is completed by a chronology of events, a thorough account of the latest creative developments, and more than 300 illustrations.