Functional, Non-Functional and Functionable

Traditionally art objects have been either functional or not. Functional art is usually a recognizable sort of object with a known mode of usage. It is widely utilized, enjoyed and understood. On the other hand there is the non-functional art object. It is found on the walls and pedestals of galleries, museums and collector's homes. It has no function other than to be itself. Its only objective is to carry a message and provide a transcendent experience for the viewer. The goal of the art object is to expand the perceptual boundaries of humans. It defies the notion that an object must have a utilitarian application to justify its existence.

There is a third option in the function vs non-functional discourse. I would like to introduce the notion of the 'functionable' art object. The functionable object has characteristics in common with both functional and non-functional art work. It is transcendent like non-functional gallery objects but it has a purposeful positioning and demeanor that allows it to function in the societal arena. It delivers to the viewer a transcendent experience in an easily recognizable, easily understood package. Because the viewer is able to enter the art work the meaningful exchange between artist and audience is more readily facilitated.

Examples
Functional: teapots, jewelry, quilts, furniture, architecture, anything by lucas, anything by Spielberg, most graphic design, most video games

Non-Functional: every gallery object

Functionable: Movies-Adaption, Running with Scissors, American Beauty, Lord of the Rings, any video game by Warren Spector, some graphic design, the ex knife holder.