Discussion: Hobbyist vs Artist
Wednesday December 27, 2006
What makes one person a hobby painter and another an artist? This is a question being discussed on the Painting Forum. Hamlet says: "In my own mind, the difference between an artist and a hobbyist has nothing to do with source of income or volume of work. ... A hobbyist does arts or crafts as a recreational activity because they find the activity itself pleasant or relaxing. Normally the hobby does not interfere with their ability to lead a normal life or make a living. An artist is compelled to make art, otherwise they become depressed or even suicidal. Their definition of themselves and their sense of self-worth is totally based on their notion of themselves as an artist..." Add your thoughts to the discussion...
Comments
No. 1, instead of getting depressed, I look for the small and simple aspects of my life that inspire me. Even if I don’t use that inspiration right away, I keep it in mind and start looking for other little things to go along with it to plan a painting. Being patient with myself is key.
And No. 2, I can’t measure what painting and drawing does for me in the form of money, but I still consider myself an artist with other responsibilities. Sometimes life just gets in the way of my painting. That’s totally o.k. Life will inspire me, it’s something I can always count on.
I believe you can tell an artist by his/her sketchbooks.
an artist won’t allow life to get in the way of their art, even if their life suffers for it!