[Tax-chick]

monetary support of the arts is not a proper function of government

I think it could be, at the city level, if the public voted for it. Many functions that aren't delegated to the Federal government can be "dealer's choice" for municipalities.

[NCSteve]

Ok. Then if the public votes to support a crucifix in a beaker of urine, then I guess its a proper function of government?

There is no possible way for government to support art that even a plurality of people will appreciate, want, or support.

My junk is someone else's art.

Since the public generally wants to be cosmopolitan and urbane, they will vocally support public money for something nebulous called "art," but almost universally they will be outraged at what their dollars end up funding.

All things considered, it is best for everyone concerned if government stays out of the art business.