This issue of Aesthetica explores some of the most exciting events happening in the contemporary art world. Opening in October at Baltic, Parrworld dives into the mind of Martin Parr, while Tate Modern surveys Pop Art through Pop Life: Art in a Material World, and in Paris as part of FIAC, a new group show, Contemporary Art from the Middle East opens. Finally, esteemed make-up artist, Alex Box, celebrates the body as a canvas. In film, Born in ‘68 examines the era of free love, and also a look at Aesthetica’s new opportunity for filmmakers. While in music, we explore the changing music industry and chat with Seattle rockers, Telekinesis!. Also, a preview of In the Spirit of Diaghilev at Sadler’s Wells this autumn. And finally, a chat with American author Keith Donohue and an extract of the fabulous novel Black Water Rising by Attica Locke. This issue celebrates creative impulses, innovation and exploration.