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Functions of Art
Function is the practical usefulness of arts. Function of art can be classified into functional
and non-functional.
However, broadly speaking, all arts have function, for man and for the maker.
Art influences the way we feel, think or act – causes us to laugh, raise our voice, to get
angry, etc.
Art helps change or improve human conditions.
Art helps express humanitarian concerns, ideological or political ideas.
Art can be means to show protest against man’s inhumanity.
Art helps change manners.
Art helps enlighten our spiritual beliefs.
Art helps elevate our morality.
C. Social Description
Art describes aspects of existence at certain periods.
Art reflects the feelings, struggles and achievements of people.
Art provides information about situations in the past.
Physical Function
Art has physical function if it is designed to accomplish its function to make our lives
physically comfortable, or if it is formed exactly right for its particular use. This may mean that the
form of this art follows its function, or the function of this art determines its form.
It differs from an ordinary functional object because it pleases the eyes of the user through
the harmonious arrangement of its formal elements.