This groundbreaking book examines the role of museums in collecting contemporary art and craft. The central focus is the Special Collection Scheme, run by the Contemporary Art Society in the UK and funded by the Arts Council Lottery, which allowed fifteen museums to revitalise their collecting and to grow and respond to twenty-first century life. Since 1998, the scheme has enabled the acquisition of more than 600 works by 313 different artists and makers. Lavishly illustrated throughout, it features such eminent artists as Olafur Eliasson, Juan Munoz, Santiago Sierra, Shirin Neshat, Tracey Emin, Julian Opie, Cornelia Parker, Bill Fontana, Jeremy Deller, Georgina Starr, Yinka Shonibare, Ian Davenport, Gavin Turk, Thomas Ruff, Grayson Perry, Ron Arad, Shelly Goldsmith, Hans Stofer, Simone ten Hompel and Jacqueline Poncelet. Just as significant are the large number of exciting younger artists whose prospects have been boosted by early acquisition for a public collection. A series of interviews with leading artists reveals what public collections mean to them as a source of inspiration, recognition and financial support. This book also discusses the history of regional art collections, collecting practice in other countries, the conservation challenges associated with new media and the impact of contemporary art on audiences. SELLING POINTS: .In depth examination of contemporary art collecting by museums .Features key works by established and up and coming artists and the importance of the museum environment for their works 97 colour & 31 b/w illustrations