The purpose of this study is to explore the generational theory of artists' job identity and perception of artistic labor, and 16 artists around the age of 40 (30-59) were interviewed in-depth to interpret their perceptions. As a result of the study, no clear generational theory was confirmed around the age of 40. The same perception without generational differences is first, most of the participants consider the artist job to be an “incomplete” job that cannot be compensated for their livelihood, and hope to become a “full-time Artist” before they die. Second, they pursue the spirit of “spirit of freedom of pure creation” derived from the myth of poor genius artists. On the other hand, the perception of the artist welfare system showed a generation gap in “interest” and “experience” around the age of 44, and “in-generation conflict” before the age of 44 was confirmed in terms of “awareness.” In addition, 'side jobs to maintain artistic creativity' have now been promoted to names such as 'second jobs', and 'main jobs' alongside artist job.
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