Generative art, a captivating form of artistic expression that combines human creativity with algorithms and computational processes, has gained significant popularity in recent years. As more individuals delve into this art form, a question arises: What sets generative art apart when pursued as a hobby versus as a profession? In this article, we will delve into the differences between generative art as a hobby and as a profession, exploring aspects such as motivation, commitment, skill development, artistic growth, and opportunities for recognition and financial sustainability.
Motivation and Purpose:
When practising generative art as a hobby, individuals are primarily driven by personal passion and enjoyment. They engage in generative art as a creative outlet, exploring their artistic inclinations and experimenting with algorithms and computational processes for personal satisfaction. The focus is on self-expression and artistic exploration without external pressures or financial expectations.
In contrast, pursuing generative art as a profession entails a deeper commitment and a sense of purpose beyond personal enjoyment. Professional generative artists often seek to create a sustainable livelihood from their artistic practice. They are motivated by a desire to share their art with a wider audience, make an impact in the art world, and establish a professional reputation.
Level of Commitment:
Generative art as a hobby typically allows for flexibility in terms of time commitment. Hobbyists engage in generative art when they have spare time and creative inspiration, without the pressure of meeting deadlines or producing work consistently. They have the freedom to explore other interests and responsibilities outside of their creative pursuits.
In contrast, pursuing generative art as a profession requires a higher level of commitment. Professional artists often allocate significant time and effort to their craft, treating it as a full-time occupation. They establish routines, work on a regular basis, and dedicate themselves to honing their skills and creating a consistent body of work to meet the demands of exhibitions, commissions, and client deadlines.
Skill Development and Artistic Growth:
Generative art as a hobby offers a more relaxed approach to skill development and artistic growth. Hobbyists have the freedom to experiment, learn at their own pace, and explore different techniques and algorithms without external expectations. They can focus on self-directed learning, accessing online resources, tutorials, and communities to enhance their skills.
As a profession, generative art demands a higher level of technical proficiency and artistic refinement. Professional artists invest time and effort in continuous skill development, keeping up with the latest tools, technologies, and trends in generative art. They may pursue formal education, attend workshops or specialised training, and engage in mentorships to enhance their abilities and advance their artistic practice.
Opportunities for Recognition and Exposure:
Generative art as a hobby typically offers limited opportunities for recognition and exposure. Hobbyists may share their artwork on social media platforms, personal blogs, or participate in online communities and exhibitions. While they can receive feedback and appreciation from peers and enthusiasts, the exposure remains within a smaller circle.
Pursuing generative art as a profession opens doors to broader opportunities for recognition and exposure. Professional artists actively seek out avenues for showcasing their work, such as galleries, art fairs, juried exhibitions, and collaborations with other artists or organisations. They aim to build a professional portfolio, gain critical acclaim, and establish a wider audience base that includes collectors, curators, and art enthusiasts.
Financial Sustainability:
Generative art as a hobby is primarily driven by personal passion and does not necessarily involve monetary expectations. Hobbyists engage in generative art for self-fulfilment and may not seek financial returns from their creative pursuits. They often cover their expenses for art supplies or software independently without the need for commercial viability.
For those pursuing generative art as a profession, financial sustainability becomes a crucial aspect. Professional artists aim to generate income from their artwork through sales, commissions, licensing, or collaborations. They develop a business mindset, establish pricing strategies, engage in marketing and promotion, and navigate the art market to support their artistic practice and livelihood.
While generative art can be pursued both as a hobby and as a profession, there are distinct differences between the two approaches. Hobbyists enjoy the freedom and flexibility of creative exploration without external pressures, primarily driven by personal enjoyment. On the other hand, professional generative artists commit themselves to the craft, focusing on skill development, artistic growth, recognition, and financial sustainability. Whether as a hobby or a profession, generative art offers individuals a unique and fulfilling avenue for creative expression, allowing them to explore the fascinating intersection of art and technology.