functions of art

487 Words2 Pages
Functions of Art Art has many functions. Just like the complexity of a definition, so are its functions. It is very hard to discriminate a precise function because its function will be based on a context. Most of the time individuals can look at a piece of art and approximate where and when it is from. Some individuals can also determine the artists. Identifying these elements will help in assessing the arts function. The three major categories identified as functions are personal, social and physical. The physical function of art is the most obvious. This is the art that actually provides some type of service. As a ceramics student, I am studying the functionality of art. A Japanese Raku Bowl is art. It is also used as a Japanese Tea Ceremony. However, my favorite example of functional art would have to be Ancient Greece. Because they are centuries old there are many architects unknown of the classical designs. Through time and nature most of these architectural structures are in ruins. These were public buildings, tombs, and temples made of stone, brick and marble. They were super structures, constructed centuries before the Christ era. There were no bull dozers, cranes, or machinery of our time. They were truly man made. The weathered, tired remains still represent physical functional art in the past as well as present. The styles of architectural design of the Western World were influenced by the buildings of the Bronze Age. Social function of art is expressed as a political function as well. Through time influential people chose artist to paint portraits to mark their political power and social status. Rembrandt’s, “The Night Watch”, is a product of social function. Personal functions are the most complicated to pin point since they are based on an individuals needs or interest as well as the artist. The personal function for the
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