What is artrsquos purpose In this engaging lively and controversial new book bestselling philosopher Alain de Botton and art historian John Armstrong propose a new way of looking at familiar masterpieces suggesting that they can be useful relevant and ndash above all else ndash therapeutic for their viewers De Botton argues that certain great works offer clues on managing the tensions and confusions of everyday life Chapters on Love Nature Money and Politics outline how art can help with these common difficulties ndash for example Vermeerrsquos Girl Reading a Letter helps us focus on what we want to be loved for Serrarsquos Fernando Pessoa reminds us of the importance of dignity in suffering and Manetrsquos Bunch of Asparagus teaches us how to preserve and value our longhyphenterm partners Art as Therapy offers an unconventional perspective demonstrating how art can guide us console us and help us better understand ourselves.
