This essay explores the nature of artistry within academic life. It makes no claims to scholarship - its aim is simply to share reflections from my journey through art and academia. Your comments to my email, dimitrib@mit.edu, will be very welcome.
At its core, the essay seeks to expand the definition of an artist beyond traditional creative fields, suggesting that artistry is defined not by domain, but by how and why one works. This perspective gives rise to a three-tiered framework of roles - technician, craftsman, and artist - distinguished by the degree of autonomy in setting goals and designing processes to achieve the goals. Within this framework, the essay examines related themes such as talent, mastery, inspiration, creativity, and artistic integrity, especially as they arise in teaching, research, and the broader landscape of academic life.
CONTENTS: 1. Who is an Artist? 2. How Does One Become an Artist? 3. Creativity and Inspiration 4. Epilogue 5. References