7 Functions of Art That Make Us Empathetic Human Beings

Art is a form of creative human expression that has always been an integral part of our lives. Whether we realize it or not, art has the power to affect us in various ways, enriching our experiences and enabling us to grow as individuals. In their book Art as Therapy, Alain De Botton and John Armstrong identify seven functions of art that help us to develop a deeper understanding of ourselves, others, and the world around us.

1. Appreciation of the Ordinary

One of the main functions of art is to help us appreciate the beauty in the everyday things that we often take for granted. Whether it’s the colors of a sunrise or the intricate details of a flower, art encourages us to see the world around us in a new light.

2. Memory Preservation

Art has the unique ability to capture a specific moment in time and make it eternal. Whether through painting, sculpture, or photography, we can look at a work of art and be transported back to a specific memory or feeling.

3. Self-Understanding

Art can help us to articulate our own thoughts and ideas by providing a tangible representation of our innermost feelings. When we see a piece of art that perfectly captures a feeling or thought we have had, it can be a powerful realization that helps us understand ourselves better.

4. Validation of Sorrow

Art doesn’t just increase our capacity for joy; it can also validate our sorrows. By providing a different perspective or vantage point from which to survey our own sadness, art can help us find a way to deal with difficult emotions and experiences.

5. Encouragement of Hope

Art has the power to move us to tears, but it can also inspire joy and hope. Seeing beautiful art can evoke feelings of optimism and encourage us to believe that positive change is possible.

6. Self-Growth

Art provides us with the opportunity to experience things that we may never encounter in our day-to-day lives. When we see artwork that depicts something that we haven’t personally experienced or of an emotion that we don’t have a personal context for, we can take the time to think about it, react to it, and empathize with it. This process of self-reflection can lead to personal growth.

7. Re-Balancing

Art allows us to step back from our busy lives and regain balance. By taking a moment to observe, judge, and appreciate things we don’t normally see and our responses to them, we can gain a better understanding of our emotional makeup and how to keep it in balance.

Conclusion

Art has the power to enrich our lives in countless ways, from encouraging us to appreciate the beauty in the everyday to helping us understand our own emotions better. By recognizing the many functions of art, we can approach it mindfully and fully appreciate the emotional well-being it can provide. So the next time you encounter a work of art, take a moment to reflect on the many ways in which it can enrich your life.