‘Art That Functions’ contains a range of full colour images of ceramic, glass, fashion and textile pieces from the Tullie House collection, drawing attention to the diversity and vibrancy of ‘functional’ art. Background information is supplied with each image.

Alongside the images are questions intended to provoke discussion about each art work, aiming to increase students’ interest in decorative arts and crafts works from the Tullie House collection, and to enhance students’ engagement with decorative arts and crafts as a genre.

Additionally, suggestions are given for practical art activities based upon each art work. These activities have been designed with the requirements of Art and Design at Key Stages 3, 4 and 5 in mind. Students may wish to use the activities as the starting point for the creation of new works, or to incorporate elements of the activities in their ongoing works.

This resource is particularly relevant to Key Stage 3: Units 8A and 9B; however, this resource aims to be useful to all Secondary students studying Art and Design, Textiles and Technology.