Art and meaning in life

Abstract

The two questions : "What is the point of life?" and "What is the point of art?" are complex. There is some confusion about what is meant by the first question and what sort of answer or answers we can reasonably expect. There is also considerable disagreement on what is the function of art. The Formalists claim that the work of art is autonomous and the aesthetic experience disinterested. Other writers on art suggest that art enables us to reflect upon the meanings of existence. Although there are many facets to works of art, is the search for significance, the attempt to find meaning in life one of their functions? My main concern will be with this question.