The collection examines the theoretical and critical landscape of art in the 1980s. Peter Halley, a prominent artist and critic, presents a series of essays written between 1981 and 1987 that delve into the burgeoning ideas of postmodernism, digital culture, and the changing nature of artistic production. The essays engage with key concepts and debates of the era, offering insights into the visual and conceptual shifts occurring in contemporary art.

This collection offers a valuable window into the critical discourse surrounding art in the 1980s, a period marked by significant theoretical shifts. The essays are recognized for their engagement with postmodernism and the emerging influence of digital culture on artistic practice. Halley's work from this period is often cited for its prescient analysis of how new technologies and societal structures began to reshape visual expression. The collection provides a foundational text for understanding the intellectual currents that informed art in the late 20th century.