The assertion that art is critical is repeatedly emphasized and fiercely contested. Starting from this situation, which has become increasingly evident in current debates since the turn of the millennium, this book explicitly addresses the question of the emancipatory-political societal relevance of art. Through a thorough engagement with the aesthetic theories of Jacques Rancière and Theodor W. Adorno, the author develops a contemporary theory of the relationship between art and politics. A differentiated art criticism must therefore include, on one hand, a critical reflection on the artworks themselves and, on the other hand, a critique that is meant to be inherent to the artworks. This dual art criticism thus also touches on fundamental questions of truth politics and the tasks of emancipatory art education. The author continually tests her claims against examples - "concretions." Additionally, the book can also be read as a solid introduction to the aesthetic theories of Rancière and Adorno.