As an artist, I would believe that art is not 'useless' and 'unnecessary' for the reason that it is a form of expression and self worth. Art is in everything we do, such as, the way we dress ourselves in the morning, or the way we organize furniture in our homes. Art is the way scientists and engineers put together complex equations and concepts. Art is the the way we talk. The way we define ourselves. 

If art was unnecessary, then the planet we live on would be dull and lifeless, since life is a form of art all by itself.

Art was born by people. On the other hand, art raised people to a new level of development. It is a human thing (we can feel it deep in our hearts) so it'll live as long as people do. It is highly relevant for self-enrichment. What comes to artists, I think they are the most powerful creatures in the world. There are loads of people who cannot fancy their real life without art and nor do I.

Hi Elena

  I think that some art  is very instructive.  Given that some artists  have real insight  to offer about human  perception and human conception,  their creations can be very informative about human experience.

  For example, in my experience, it was Modigliani's use of the Mask  and its later expression in Picasso's

Cubist  paintings which showed me  some insights into Mind.

 Also,  I think art  enables mankind, with some credibility, to explore  its own sensuality,  without which,  people would be reduced to little other than some kind of Robotic status, lifeless and unable to freely express.  

  Artists are magnificent people   who display abilities that I can only dream of.

 Of course,  like all human activities,    Art is competitive.  Those who express  some kind of errant understanding, produce creations which are not deemed to be of great value.

It may also be true that there are powerful artists,  whose work is never even acknowledged.

But people who dismiss art and artists  show little imagination and little understanding of life.

I think Olivia  offered a most excellent summation.

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Art is useless and unnecessary, but so are coffee and chocolate. Art is a part of the 'extras' of life. I would rather die than live in a world without it.

When I have problems (specially in winter)- I go to Tretiakov Gallery. I like Russian impressionists - such as Korovin. I like Куинджи. After this trip i have new forces for life.