An artist is who creates works with aesthetic worth but not necessarily commercial value whereas an entrepreneur is someone who creates net worth by adding value to society.
Similarities ...
In early years of our civilization both of them were categorized as the outcasts. Artists did not bearing any monetary or commercial values thus they were neglected and denied. On the other hand, entrepreneurs were categorized as the opportunists who destroys our social and economic order.
Both of them were independent who choose their own destiny. They work with their hands and minds.
Both of them were creative beings in achieving their objectives. Creativity sustains in their presence that transpires in the outcomes. They create something out of nothing.
Nowadays both of them were rediscovered as heroes and heroins They were part and parcel of our economic and social developers.
Differences ...
Artists value creation. Entrepreneurs create value.
Artists use their hearts, minds and souls to create their works. In the process, they explore new territory about themselves and the world. The primary audience for their work is themselves.
While artists value creation, the actions of entrepreneurs often lead to “creative destruction” – a term popularized by Joseph Schumpeter, one of the patriarchs of entrepreneurial theory.
In with the new sometimes means out with the old! Established competitors may be so vested in the old way of doing business that they can’t compete.
The primary audience for entrepreneurs is their customers. They find a need and design products or services to meet it.
The art and science of entrepreneuring
Entrepreneurs know that change creates these opportunities. That’s why Schumpeter defined entrepreneurship as “the science of change, not continuity.”
People often say that entrepreneurship is part science and part art. Without a doubt, the art of entrepreneuring involves creativity. But intuition and judgment are just as important, if not more so.
Artists value creation. They are driven by their passions to create valuable works.
Entrepreneurs create value. They are driven by people who value the entrepreneur’s creation because it solves their problem.
It’s a move from right brain to left brain, from internal to external, from passion to product.
Artists can be entrepreneurial. Entrepreneurs can be artistic. But it’s still important to understand the difference between the two roles even if you’re playing both parts!
At least that’s what we think. What do you think?
(Adopted from: Kroeger and Foster, 2010)
Amran Awang, PhD
Associate Professor
