Chapter 47

 People often argue whether an object is considered art or not. It is hard to tell what is actually art. There really is no true answer. Who gets to decide whether artwork is art or not? It is impossible to put a definition and standard to what art can be, especially when disagreeing with someone's creative ideas. Alan Gowens states that rather than asking "What is art?", we need to ask, "What kinds of things have been done by that activity traditionally called Art?". Art performs four functions which include substitute imagery, illustration, conviction and persuasion, and beautification. Substitute imagery are works such as photographs, paintings, and any "art piece" that captures reality. Illustrations are works that tell stories or help tell stories. Conviction and persuasion are works that show beliefs and sell products. Beautification are works that please the eye or gratify the mind. These four functions of art are very important and can be compared to different theories of art. For example, substitute imagery is comparable to a mimetic theory, illustration is related to an objective theory of art, persuasion is considered pragmatic, and beautification is emotive. By focusing on what art does, we are able to examine so many more possiblilities and creative ideas than if we were to think about what art is. Not very many people consider themselves as artists, but in reality, every single person can be an artist. Art has no boundaries, limits, or rules. Just put your mind to it, and you will be able to be your own artist!