Laurie Anderson: 'I've never really had a hobby, unless you count art, which the IRS once told me I had to declare as a hobby since I hadn't made money with it.'

I've never really had a hobby, unless you count art, which the IRS once told me I had to declare as a hobby since I hadn't made money with it.

The quote by Laurie Anderson, "I've never really had a hobby unless you count art, which the IRS once told me I had to declare as a hobby since I hadn't made money with it," encapsulates a wry perspective on the nuances of personal pursuits and the complexities of societal definitions. At first glance, it speaks to the way our society often categorizes and values activities based on their monetary outcomes. Anderson's remark suggests that even though art may not have been financially lucrative for her, it was far from just a mere pastime.Art, as an expression of creativity and imagination, holds a profound significance in the lives of many individuals. It allows them to explore unconventional ideas, emotions, and perspectives, often serving as a way to escape the mundanity of everyday life. It is through art that people can dive into the depths of their subconscious or convey important messages about the world around them. Thus, it is fair to argue that classifying art as a mere "hobby" undermines its transformative power and the impact it can have on both the artist and the society at large.However, amidst our exploration of Anderson's quote, it is interesting to introduce a philosophical concept, one that brings a unique perspective to the topic. Enter existentialism, a philosophical school of thought that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice. Existentialists believe that individuals are responsible for creating their own meaning and purpose in life. According to this perspective, the categorization of art as a hobby solely based on its monetary success could be seen as a societal construct attempting to impose a predetermined value system onto individuals and their actions.Existentialism would argue that the true worth of art, or any other pursuit, lies in the personal fulfillment it brings to the individual engaging in it. The act of creating art can provide a sense of purpose, self-discovery, and even genuine happiness. Artists, by dedicating their time and energy to their craft, are shaped by their artistic endeavors. They find fulfillment in the creative process itself, never solely relying on external validation or financial gains to determine the significance of their art.In contrast, the IRS's declaration classifying art as a hobby reveals a relatively narrow and materialistic viewpoint. The agency's approach highlights a societal bias that tends to prioritize economic value over personal growth and fulfillment. It overlooks the fact that artistic expression and the enjoyment derived from engaging in creative pursuits can often be priceless.By incorporating the concept of existentialism into our examination of Anderson's quote, we can recognize the importance of subjective personal experiences and the pursuit of meaning in one's life. It urges us to question the societal norms that attempt to pigeonhole our passions and endeavors. The perspective of existentialism encourages us to embrace the value and significance of art, regardless of its financial profitability, which ultimately enhances our understanding of its true worth.In conclusion, Laurie Anderson's quote brings attention to the way our society tends to reduce meaningful pursuits to mere hobbies if they fail to generate monetary profit. However, by introducing the philosophical concept of existentialism, we can challenge this perspective and acknowledge the profound personal fulfillment and value that art brings to individuals. The recognition of art as an inherently meaningful pursuit, regardless of its monetary success, encourages a broader and more compassionate understanding of ourselves and the human experience.