Magic IS the oldest recorded member of the performing arts. It predates music by about 3,000 years, it predates cinema by 5,000 years, and theatre by a couple of 1000 years.
I was browsing a discussion on a private magician group on Facebook and an interesting debate came up… Is magic art or is it a craft? A few magicians commented said they avoid the art paradigm because it creates the false image of the “starving artist” in the minds of clients, audiences & people in general where whereas craft conjurors up the image of a professional. ART is the use of materials to create a tangible item and craft is the use of tools and materials to create a project. While magic may use materials, the outcome – the result of a magical effect happens in the realm of the intangible. Magic happens in the heart & psyche rather than in the hands. The product of magic is the subjective emotional experience of the onlooker.
Strategic Reframing Of Terms
“Artist” has negative connotations to it, and unfortunately in some small pockets of society so does “magician” and even “craftsman”. This is where strategic Reframing comes in handy. When I’m working corporate or wedding – I am an event experience specialist. When I’m being a generalist I’m a “magician”. Framing yourself can help leverage negative attitudes people may have.
Does it really matter?
Words matter. Abracadabra literally means “I create what I speak”. In some circumstances, it will be advantageous to call oneself a “magician” and in another a “event experience specialist”, “magical artist” and or “magical craftsman.” the terms we use to label ourselves sets the tone for expectations.
Jordan Allen 