Functions of Art Below you will find many different functions of artwork. Its important that when you look at a piece of work made by another artist you try to determine what function it serves. This will give your own work more meaning once you recognize the function your own work serves. I encourage you to explore several types of functions while in the DP for your own work.
Educational function: symbols and signs to illustrate knowledge not given in words
Spiritual function: to express spiritual beliefs about the destiny of life controlled by the force of a higher power.
Social function: to reinforce and enhance the shared sense of identity of those in family, community, or civilization, for example, festive occasions, parades, dances, uniforms, important holidays or events.
Personal function: to express personal feelings. Perhaps the artist wanted to remind viewers of personal family tragedy, or perhaps he just wanted to tell them to appreciate what they had, and to live each day as if it were their last.
Expressive function: expresses the artists’ feelings
Descriptive function: records the likeness of a place or person or other subject.
Conceptual function :the idea or concept behind the work is more important than the object
Practical function: has a practical use, such as clothing, vessels, furniture, a building
Religious function: tells a religious story or is an object of devotion.
Historical narrative function:tells a story of an event in history
Commemorative function: made to honour someone (like a statue of a famous person)
Political function: serves a political purpose, such as propaganda.
Decorative Function: used to adorn the body, a room, a building etc.
Ritual function: used as part of a ritual or ceremony, or has magical powers.
Shock function: intended to shock or upset the viewer