GEC-AA: Functions and Philosophical Perspective on Art

Classifications of Art Functions

• Three main classifications of art functions: personal, social, and functional.
• Social function addresses collective interests rather than individual interests.

Therapeutic Use of Art

• Art can be used therapeutically in contexts like mental health treatment, stress relief, and emotional expression.

Art with Social Functions

• Example of an art form delivering social functions: visual art depicting social conditions, such as poverty or community life.

Collective Behavior and Art

• Artistic functions that may affect collective behavior include social advocacy or political art.

Adult Coloring Books

• Adult coloring books are classified under personal functions of art, offering relaxation and personal expression.

Tolstoy's Defense of Art

• One key reason Tolstoy defends the existence of art is its capacity to unite people through shared experiences and emotions.

Main Functions of Art

• The primary functions of art described: expression of personal emotions, social commentary, and fulfilling practical needs.

Non-Personal Art Function

• An example that is NOT considered a personal function of art includes artworks with social or political messages.

Relevance of Art

• Art remains relevant throughout history primarily because it reflects and adapts to human experiences and societal changes.

Non-Social Function of Art

• An identified item that is NOT a social function of art may include purely decorative objects without deeper context.

Significance of Function in Architecture

• Function in architecture emphasizes the practical use of structures, alongside their aesthetic value.

Commemorative Sculptures

• Sculptures are used to commemorate important figures through memorials and statues, reflecting cultural values and history.

Distinction of Buildings

• Buildings distinguish themselves from other art forms like furniture or paintings through their inherent functional needs and purpose.

Functionality in Art Value

• Functionality plays a crucial role in the value of art, as successful designs meet practical needs while also imparting aesthetic qualities.

National Conditions in Architecture

• Architectural planning considers national conditions such as topography, climate, and available materials for successful integration.

Grandiose Structures

• The text suggests grandiose structures throughout history often symbolize cultural achievements and human aspiration.

Telos, Function, and 'Whatness'

• The relationship describes how telos (purpose) and function interconnect with the essence of a thing, shaping its identity.

Inquiry about Art's Function

• An inquiry about art's function essentially explores its purpose and significance in human life.

Relationship Between Art Forms and Functions

• Different art forms possess unique functions but can often overlap, serving both expressive and functional roles.

Architecture as Functional Art

• Architecture is viewed as highly functional due to its essential role in sheltering, accommodating, and serving communities.

Functional Arts and Importance

• Some functional arts exhibit importance through their designs aimed at enhancing usability while still delivering aesthetic experiences.

Naming of Art

• The name of an art form typically indicates its purpose or the medium used, offering insight into its intent.

Aristotle on Purpose (Telos)

• According to Aristotle, the telos of human beings is to achieve eudaimonia, or happiness and fulfillment.

Aristotle's Relation of Telos to Function

• Aristotle establishes that a thing's function connects to its telos, grounding its identity in purpose.

Illustration of Aristotle's Views

• Examples illustrating Aristotle's views depict the interdependency of identity and function, where purpose defines the essence of objects.

Happiness and Function

• Aristotle posits that things lacking rational thought cannot achieve true happiness, directly linking identity to functional capacities.

Primary Function of Human Beings

• The primary function of human beings, according to Aristotle, is rational thought, guiding ethical and purposeful living.

Loss of Rational Capacity

• If a human loses the capacity for rational thought, Aristotle would argue that their identity is diminished or compromised.