So what exactly is contemporary art? Contemporary art has been defined as many things, simply classified as any artworks that are 'new' or, more specifically, any artworks produced in the 21st century. Often contemporary art is described as the art of today, produced by artists who are currently living. Contemporary art provides an opportunity to reflect on contemporary society and the issues relevant to ourselves, and the world around us. Unlike representative classical art, modern and contemporary art is interpretive and is very experiential. Contemporary art often contains an element of abstractness and can be presented in any form.

Generally artists produce contemporary art to express ideas or concepts, usually about the modern world. On occasion, contemporary art addresses important issues in society, and leaves the audience thinking about the issue. Artists can create meaningful contemporary artworks in order to create change and leave an impact, or even just to spread a message.

Contemporary artists can create artwork through the use of countless different techniques and medium. Although some contemporary artworks are made with more conventional media, for example paint, oils, pens and pencils, often artists use sound, movement and light to create their artworks. Sometimes smoke or other materials such as mirrors are used to produce a desired effect.

Contemporary art can take many forms, as it is so limitless and not bound by the traditional and conventional canvas and acrylic. Some examples would be installations, sculptures and performance art.

This is an example of a sculpture.

This is an example of an installation.

Another example of contemporary art is a work titled 'Balloon Dog' by Jeff Koons.