Yes, you can certainly use 'work' to refer to the arts, for example 'I'm reading the works of Shakespeare', or 'This painting is a work by Picasso'. Note that this is an instance where we are using the word 'work' as a countable noun. 'Work' in the sense of employment is uncountable. 'Piece of art' (note the spelling of 'piece') can also be used, or 'artwork' to refer to a painting or drawing, for example.

Sure. Here are some examples: "I like modern works of art." "The Mona Lisa is my favorite work of art." Does that answer your question?