This contribution was developed in response to the editors brief - to reconsider the relationship between art and design in a critical context.This text proposes that both art and design have the potential of operating as socially productive practices. I suggest we avert our attention to the difference between a politicized practice and an unsuspecting practice whether it is characterised as art or design. This changes the emphasis from what is art and design to how art and design can improve the way we live. I wish to use the framework of critical theory to suggest a function for critical art and design practice that is not defined by specialized procedures. I propose that this type of art and design practice can encourage us to change how we act in the world whether we are producers, consumers or observers.