Provides an illustrated analysis by a distinguished archaeologist of why the processes of archaeological investigation and discovery have been paralleled by the installations and art works of many artists, from the beginning of the 20th century.

"Figuring it Out", new in paperback this autumn, is a compelling, richly illustrated analysis by a distinguished archaeologist of why the processes of archaeological investigation and discovery have been paralleled by the installations and art works of many artists, from the beginning of the 20th century to the present day. Central to the exploration is a group of leading contemporary artists, including Richard Long, Mark Dion, Barry Flanagan, Antony Gormley, Eduardo Paolozzi and David Mach, whose works are notable for an engagement with our world.

Introduction: What are We?
1. Encounters: Art as archaeology, archaeology as art
2. What is Art? The Tyranny of the Renaissance
3. Off the Plinth: Display and Process
4. The Human Condition: Being and Remembering
5. The (al)Lure of the Artefact
6. Baneful Signs: The Archaeology of Now.