Nathalie Heinich's book, *Le paradigme de l'art contemporain: Structures d'une révolution artistique*, explores the concept of contemporary art as a paradigm shift in the art world. The book aims to clarify the distinction between modern and contemporary art, which is often blurred in public perception. Heinich uses Thomas Kuhn's theory of scientific paradigms to explain how contemporary art represents a deep change in understanding what art is. She identifies three art paradigms: classical, modern, and contemporary, each representing a significant rupture from the previous one. Contemporary art, according to Heinich, creates an ontological disruption by challenging the traditional boundaries of what is considered art. This often leads to debates and controversies, as contemporary art does not conform to the assumptions, standards, and values of modern or classical art. The book details how contemporary art challenges traditional notions of art, such as permanence, materiality, and the role of the artist. It also discusses the impact of these changes on various aspects of the art world, including exhibition, buying, collecting, storage, conservation, and transportation. Heinich's analysis is grounded in a wealth of examples, incidents, and anecdotes, which she uses to illustrate the profound shift in art practice and theory. The book highlights the importance of narration and discourse in contemporary art, the role of institutions and intermediaries, and the active participation of viewers. It also examines the changing nature of authorship and the emergence of new professions and production systems. The book is written in a clear and objective tone, providing a comprehensive and insightful analysis of contemporary art. It serves as a valuable resource for both general readers interested in contemporary art and professionals seeking a sociological framework for understanding the art world.Nathalie Heinich's book, *Le paradigme de l'art contemporain: Structures d'une révolution artistique*, explores the concept of contemporary art as a paradigm shift in the art world. The book aims to clarify the distinction between modern and contemporary art, which is often blurred in public perception. Heinich uses Thomas Kuhn's theory of scientific paradigms to explain how contemporary art represents a deep change in understanding what art is. She identifies three art paradigms: classical, modern, and contemporary, each representing a significant rupture from the previous one. Contemporary art, according to Heinich, creates an ontological disruption by challenging the traditional boundaries of what is considered art. This often leads to debates and controversies, as contemporary art does not conform to the assumptions, standards, and values of modern or classical art. The book details how contemporary art challenges traditional notions of art, such as permanence, materiality, and the role of the artist. It also discusses the impact of these changes on various aspects of the art world, including exhibition, buying, collecting, storage, conservation, and transportation. Heinich's analysis is grounded in a wealth of examples, incidents, and anecdotes, which she uses to illustrate the profound shift in art practice and theory. The book highlights the importance of narration and discourse in contemporary art, the role of institutions and intermediaries, and the active participation of viewers. It also examines the changing nature of authorship and the emergence of new professions and production systems. The book is written in a clear and objective tone, providing a comprehensive and insightful analysis of contemporary art. It serves as a valuable resource for both general readers interested in contemporary art and professionals seeking a sociological framework for understanding the art world.