The Art of Non-Competition: Why Art is Not a Sport

T.L. Mazumdar Author

Sep 01, 2024 |

Why competition can hinder artistic growth.

The comparison of art to sport is a tempting notion and always teased out quite a few similarities. 

As independent  musicians, at some point creativity will inevitably meet hustle (though I personally never resonated with that word). 

So this 'art vs sport' analogy keeps blurring into confusion.

On closer inspection though, my bet is that it’ll reveal some major distinctions.

Let’s discuss?

Discipline and Dedication

So here’s the thing: while both art and sport demand discipline, dedication, and even a touch of competitive spirit, I would argue that the essence of art is a completely different one.

It lies in its boundless freedom and intrinsic value—qualities that set it apart from the more ‘structured’ realm of sports.

The Illusion of Competition

Let’s start by addressing the elephant in the room: competition.

In sports, competition is the very fabric that holds it together. Athletes measure success through ‘victories’, statistics, and records. The scoreboard represents an unequivocal testament to the athletes' prowess.

For artists, this would be a disastrous approach to measure their worth. Any competition involved in their practice is not just far more nuanced but not really a ‘goal’ in the first place.

Sure, the music industry has its charts, awards, and sales figures, but these metrics are mere byproducts of a deeper, more personal journey. If anything, I would argue that they always run the risk of being a divisive and distorted representation of art’s meaningfulness. One that is incredibly difficult, if not impossible to measure with binary values.

(Case in point, one of my favourite artists of all time Meshell Ndgeocello waited decades before finally winning her first Grammy, despite multiple nominations in the past, even while being openly hailed as one of the most influential artists of her time ever).

Art, is an expression of the human experience and beyond. Not a contest to be won.

The Subjectivity of Excellence

Let’s consider the nature of excellence in sports versus art.

In sports, excellence is ‘quantifiable’.

A runner's speed, a gymnast's score, or a team's win-loss record are all considered definitive indicators of success.

This excellence is inherently subjective in art. A piece of music that moves one person to tears might leave another completely untouched. And the volatile and non-linear nature of this phenomenon is not a flaw but a feature, highlighting art’s role in reflecting the diversity of the humanity.

Musicians create from a place of personal truth. Aiming for universal approval is not the goal, authentic connection is.

The Role of Technique and Creativity

Both art and sport demand rigorous practice and mastery of technique. Yet, the role of creativity in each diverges significantly.

In sports, creativity can certainly enhance performance—think of a basketball player's innovative play or a figure skater's unique routine—but it operates within the boundaries of established rules and objectives.

For musicians, creativity is the lifeblood of the craft. It is the spark that turns technique into transcendence, the difference between playing a note and conveying an emotion. While technique in sports serves the goal of ‘victory’.

In art, it is merely a vehicle to facilitate a boundless zone of creativity.

The Journey Over the Destination

In the realm of sports, the destination—be it a trophy, a title, or a record—is often thought of as the ultimate goal. The journey is important, but it is the outcome that ultimately gets to define success.

That changes in art. And as corny as it sounds, the journey really is the destination (yes, I know you’ve probably read that on Instagram 96 million times by now).

Jokes apart though, the process of creating, exploring, and evolving as a practitioner oin the arts really is where the true value lies.

The late-night writing sessions, the experimental jams, and even the frustrating setbacks are all integral parts of the artistic journey for us musicians. The destination is usually just a fleeting moment (or series of many if we luck out). So if that becomes our intent, it can be an addictive downward spiral.

But the journey is a lifetime. And that’s what the true artist is in it for.

Holistic Solutions for Artistic Pain-Points

Understanding that art is not a sport is crucial for addressing the unique challenges faced by independent musicians. The pressures of comparison and competition can lead to burnout and creative blocks.

Embracing the subjective, journey-focused nature of art can provide a more holistic approach to these pain points.

Here are a few suggestions:

1. Redefine Success: Shift the focus from external validation to personal fulfillment. Set goals that reflect your artistic vision and values rather than industry standards.

2.Foster Community Over Competition: Build a supportive network of fellow musicians. Collaborate, share resources, and celebrate each other's successes.

3.Prioritize Mental and Emotional Well-Being: Recognize that your well-being is integral to your creativity. Incorporate practices like mindfulness, meditation, and regular breaks into your routine.

4. Embrace Failure as Part of the Process: View setbacks and failures as opportunities for growth rather than as indicators of inadequacy. Each misstep is a step towards mastery.

5. Cultivate a Growth Mindset: Stay open to learning and evolving. Embrace new genres, techniques, and perspectives to keep your artistry fresh and dynamic.

In conclusion, while art and sport may share surface similarities, their fundamental differences underscore the unique beauty and freedom of artistic expression. For us independent musicians, recognizing these distinctions can provide an essential compass for navigating the landscape of our careers.

Remember, there is no ‘finish line’ in art—only an endless horizon of possibilities.

Categories: : mental health, music business, music education