Part-timer Perspective.

I've read a few posts from people regarding how they would like to approach fan subscriptions and online income moving forward, or new options they'd like to create for the future. So far, these conversations have been around alleged earnings, efficiently commodifying output, expanding a brand, building a business, etc.

I'd like to hear from the people with a different perspective on life.

Please bear with me while I use myself as an example; it's perhaps the simplest and easiest way for me illustrate what I mean.

I work an unremarkable job - which I enjoy - and I'm paid fairly and looked after. At the end of every shift I get to completely switch off from that world, but I have the comfort of knowing it is still there. There is a lot to be said for unremarkable jobs when it comes to finding time for yourself and pursuing a stress-free existence.

I'm very busy, and often try to do more than I have time for. These extra commitments are not taken on in pursuit of any financial gain. I am a curious person, and I love getting lost in the minutia of my hobbies.

I have two [very] small businesses, and I'm fortunate enough to get a little pocket money through my interests. I don't ever want either of these to become my main source of income, and I am not ambitious when it comes to expanding them. First and foremost they are for enjoyment.

I prefer it when people who excel at something challenge systems rather than attempt to refine them. One reason why pop music is as frustrating to me as it is invasive. But hey, pick your industry. I feel that the whole 'good artists copy, but great artists steal' quote is only used by people who aren't interested in art; they're interested in how they can use art to get something. Essentially, they could be in any other profession.

In terms of my own output, I've always made everything available for free. I'd create regardless, any potential earnings won't be life changing, and - without going down the rabbit hole of 'does art have value' - I'm a realist. That doesn't have to be synonymous with pessimism, and I think the dream factories have pushed that narrative since they came into existence.

Most importantly; I don't want my hobby to be my job, to be my identity. I like to keep those three things separate. They all serve fundamentally different purposes, and should not rely on one another.

If people would like to support me financially, I do have that option available via Bandcamp, but rarely advertise it. It is a gesture that I want to be genuine, something that comes from connection, not coercion.

TL;DR

I'd love to meet the part-timers. Like-minded hobbyists and enthusiasts who aren't motivated by money or expansion, who are passionate about experimenting in their niche, and understand things take as long as they take. I'd be especially interested in collaborating on works broadly influenced by artists like Burial, Lorn, Jon Hopkins, Moderat, and Rival Consoles.

Thanks for reading.