It has had many different functions throughout its history, making it difficult to abstract or quantify its purpose for any one concept. This does not mean that the purpose of art is "obscure", but rather that it had unique and different reasons for being created. Some of these functions of art are outlined below. The various aims of art may be grouped into non-motivated and motivated aims (Levi-Strauss).

Art serves a multitude of functions, each with its own significance. From non-motivated aims to motivated ones, art embodies diverse purposes that reflect the complexity of human creativity. Understanding these different functions enriches our perception of art's role in society.