Art and Service

Abstract

Introduction:  Does encountering art make one a better person? This question emerged from our ongoing conversation about the relationship between art and ethics. The word «better,» however, is not without its troubles, so using the less problematic language of traditional Western ethics we have rephrased the question, Does art contribute to human flourishing? Generally, most would say yes. That is why we include art in our educational curriculums, we build museums, and we use it to decorate our homes. So, if we come away from art somehow different, in a positive sense, then it seems clear that art has a service function for individuals and for society. John Paul II made this point in his 1999 letter to artists in which he wrote: «Within the vast cultural panorama of each nation, artists have their unique place. Obedient to their inspiration in creating works both worthwhile and beautiful, they not only enrich the cultural heritage of each nation and of all humanity, but they also render an exceptional social service in favor of the common good» (para. 4). This paper will explore that service. Hopefully by describing how art functions as a service, we will also contribute to the formulation of a definition of art, something that philosophers have struggled to do without much consensus.