This study of Francis Ponge's essays on contemporary artists (L'Atelier contemporain) attempts to broaden the popular view of the author as a poet of objects. It explores Ponge's perception of art criticism as an inherently problematic genre and exposes the inhibitions surrounding the production of the essays. The study demonstrates how Ponge's essays on artists parallel developments in his other works. They are seen as instrumental in his movement towards open texts and a stress on the creative process itself, as well as opportunities to reaffirm his philosophical and aesthetic stance.