Ma. Theresa A.

Abillar
BSIE 3-5N

Functionalism Theory of Art

The success of the fulfillment of the nature of an artwork or subject is at the heart of
functionalism, a theory of art. It places a strong emphasis on usefulness as the foundation for
aesthetic, as opposed to ugliness, which is defined as failure or ineffectiveness. For me, this is
true in music, sculpture, painting, and other forms of art; as long as it has a goal and achieves
that aim, it is recognized art. This theory is reasonable in the sense that everything has a purpose,
whatever that purpose may be, and so everything has value for everyone. This notion is
particularly applicable to architecture or technical designs in terms of art because every aspect of
the structure serves a purpose, and the more the purpose is fulfilled, the more it beautifies.
However, because we all have various perceptions and assign different meanings and purposes
to different items, what is helpful to me may not be useful to others, and what is broken to me
may be beneficial to others. As a result, it makes us wonder of whether functionalism really has
a flaw. The method for me is still personal.

What do you think makes an artwork less or more expensive?

It is simple to claim that it's a matter of taste or it is always based on the perspective of
an individual, but when appraising works of art, there are a few key variables to consider. We are
discussing art's monetary, market value. Emotional worth and cultural relevance are vital, but in
the volatile art market, they have very little, if any, impact on the value. For me, here are some
factors that I am considering in an artworks value: (1) Artist, when it comes to valuing art, the
artist is the most significant consideration. Looking back across history, it's clear that some artists
were more important than others, and as a result, their works will be more valuable. Once the
artist is a well-known then his artworks become expensive. That is why art is also considered as
an investment. (2) Subject, the content/emotions of an artwork for me makes it more valuable.
(3) Technique, the technique that is used has a factor in pricing an artwork and for me it is an
important factor. How much effort, how hard is it to do and what ways did he used in creating
the artwork. That is my first 3 factors in considering what is the value of an artwork but there are
more factors need to be considered.

Abstract Expressionism

Abstract Expressionism were distinct from others in that they directly communicated their
thoughts or emotions on a painting or by experimenting with various colors, leaving no specific
Ma. Theresa A. Abillar
BSIE 3-5N

image left. The majority of Abstract Expressionists avoided traditional fine art processes in favor
of non-traditional painting techniques. For me abstract expressionism is more sentimental for
both the creator and the viewer/buyer. It allows freedom to the artists to express his thought
and emotions in a certain artwork. However, not all of people appreciates an abstract art. It will
always be based on how it connects to the viewer or based on the appreciation/ knowledge in art
of an individual.

Institutional Theory of Art: Is art only confined through the institution or convention of
the society

Is art only confined through the institution or convention of the society? I am against
Institutional Theory of Art because it says that only art institutions have a power to dictate what is art
and what is not. The group of people that is included in that institution can assess whether it is an art
or not. It only limits other artists or aspiring artist that can be innovative and unique in their artworks.
For me everything is art and making one doesn’t need a consent to others just to validate it as an
artwork. It only blocks the opportunity for an art to develop and to appreciate more.

Do / create an action painting. Use watercolor and an Oslo paper (or any medium available
around you)