Surveying the Various Functions of Art
It is characteristic of human beings to make the things around them appear better or make them feel a certain way. Doing so stimulates the mind, the emotions, and the senses as well. Whether it be in the realm of literature, painting, theatre, music, interior design or fashion, a lot of methods and techniques have been devised for the purpose of organising words, thoughts, images and harmonies into something delightful to hear and a pleasure to behold and experience.
The functions and the purposes with which art is utilised vary from one group of people to another, especially with its ardent practitioners. Here are some of the most common:
- For entertainment
This is one of the major motivations due to the aesthetic value of creatively done objects, which may range from an avant-garde film to a marble sculpture. Who would not want to admire such ingenious and beautiful products for their own sake? Several artists throughout history have promoted this and brought it to the consciousness of the many, especially those who initially thought such sort of appreciation is for a select few.
- For communication
You may have heard of artists needing to express what is on their minds and hearts. As such, they use different mediums to convey their thoughts and beliefs. For example, to illustrate their conviction that love permeates many aspects of human living, they create paintings, songs or murals that depict such a theme which they use to deliver their message in a more explicit way.
- For healing
Clinical psychologists and psychotherapists have used art therapy in helping their patients deal with trauma and other conditions. It is used as a means for reaching catharsis and a way to understand the personality of the one being treated. Some tests even utilise drawing skills with the goal of revealing the deeper workings of the individual’s subconscious.
- For political purposes
Some movements, like Abstract Expressionism, Surrealism and Russian Constructivism, had governmental change as their goal. These also influence others to share their view and ideology. Creative works have also been used in war propaganda, whether in encouraging more contributions for the effort or in recruiting more men for the campaign.
- For commercialism
This is also a significant motivation for using or developing ingenious and original creations. It is utilised to introduce sell products and services to the general public and discreetly manipulate them into cultivating certain feelings and attitudes toward what is being promoted. Even classic masterpieces are exploited to generate the attention desired.
No matter what function or purpose it may serve, it is without doubt that art is an extension of humanity. As such, its various forms can be found in any establishment or home. The layout and design of living areas show the taste and inclinations of its owners to add that which is most pleasing to them. The motifs used expresses the hopes, joys and dreams of its occupants. Thus, in buying furnishings for key domestic areas like the kitchen, it is important to have a good understanding of aesthetics in order to create spaces that are truly inspiring.
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