Does contemporary art have a purpose, a role, or a responsibility?

Use the following questions and related media as a way to initiate dialogue about contemporary art and specific ideas related to where art is seen, how it is made, and who makes it. Related images and video segments should inspire a variety of responses and provoke new ways of thinking about possible answers.

Does contemporary art have a purpose, a role, or a responsibility?

Mel Chin. "Revival Field," 1991. Pig's Eye Landfill, St. Paul, Minnesota. Plants, and industrial fencing on a hazardous waste landfill, approximately 60 x 60 x 9 feet. Courtesy the Artist.