"Art Worlds" by Howard S. Becker, published by‎ University of California Press, 1982. First Edition, 7th Printing.

Soft cover; 6" x 9"; 392 pages including Index, slightly bumped bottom corner of c.30 pages in the middle, very good condition.

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.

"Becker's Art Worlds is a classic. Not only does he define "art world," which is critical for the study of the arts, but he covers so many topics of the arts (from creation, to sales, to networks, etc). This book is like the Bible of art worlds and can be applied in so many ways, beyond what most people consider "fine art." A serious must-have for anyone studying the arts in sociology." [a private review]

US: Priority (c.2-6 days) ------------- $12.50
Canada: 1st Class (c.2-7 weeks) ----- $27.50
World: 1st Class (c.2-10 weeks) ----- $35.50