What is the purpose (or value) of art?

The purpose of art is to convey a message meaningful to its community and depict an
accurate description of the artists. Although there are many mediums artists can display their
messages, ultimately what the viewer sees and understands is the main goal all artists want to
achieve. The purpose of art is also cultural enlightenment and fulfillment. Expression through art
of an array of mediums allow people to give themselves a purpose beyond their daily
endeavors.
One of the many projects completed this semester was the Harlem Renaissance Project.
I chose to research and recreate a painting of one of Jacob Lawrences works in my art class by
creating a collage similar to his painting of three African American children in a classroom. It
was not until I created my collage that Lawrences message was clear to me. His depiction of
struggle, lack of resources, and segregation was the messages I saw within his art and it was
something I could relate to in comparison to my life. The Harlem Renaissance was a point in
history where civil rights were questioned and communities came together to exchange ideas,
and through their works, artists were able to express their feelings towards these issues.
Besides the Harlem Renaissance project, we also explored Chicano Park and its many
murals in the area. Chicano Park is a community park dedicated to involving its Barrio Logan
community in murals, events and get togethers. As a team we studied the artworks and its
messages behind it, and from our observations, we realized that its community has struggled for
many years. To the eyes of an outsider, a Chicano individual is a part of a minority and is
discriminated against for their way of life. However, from this field trip Ive learned that this is a
very tight-knit community and they are not strangers to such detriments. One look at the parks
artwork reveals many stories behind certain people or the community culture. From my
exploration of Chicano Park, I was able to witness the connection the people had with art and
the very important significance Chicano culture had within their lives, thus revealing the many
purposes and values of art.

Ultimately, art can take on many forms. While Its purpose and value is limitless, ones
expression in art can be interpreted differently to others, however, the connection it creates with
people is very significant and is cherished by its creator and its audience. Art influences
communities in many ways and an outcome of this is cultural enlightenment and fullfillment.