Beginning with a discussion of the functions of art, the author traces the various connections between visual forms and the personal, social, and physical dimensions of everyday life. These are examined in the light of the impact art has on psychological expression, social description, the communication of ideology, the design of useful objects, and the organization of the large-scale environment. The styles of art, including objective accuracy, formal order, emotion, and fantasy, are considered. A discussion of the structure of art is divided into three sections--grammar, design, and aesthetics. Four media are examined in detail--painting, sculpture, architecture, and films and television. The discussion of films and televisions stresses the artistic qualities of film and its value for social comment and creative expression. The theoretical and practical problems of art criticism are considered. Two indexes, one of names and works and one of subjects, and a selected bibliography are also included. (JY)