Meaning: This quote by Mark Mothersbaugh, a musician and composer known for his work with the band Devo and his extensive film and television scoring, offers a glimpse into the intersection of art and commerce in the entertainment industry. In this quote, Mothersbaugh emphasizes the importance of artistic integrity and personal passion in decision-making, even when faced with lucrative opportunities.

The quote reflects the idea that creative professionals, particularly those with established careers and financial stability, have the luxury of making choices based on their artistic preferences rather than purely financial considerations. It suggests that Mothersbaugh and his colleagues have the freedom to prioritize projects they feel passionate about, regardless of the potential financial gains.

This mindset aligns with the notion that creative work is not solely driven by monetary rewards but also by the desire to create meaningful and impactful art. It underscores the idea that artistic fulfillment and personal satisfaction can be just as, if not more, important than financial success. Mothersbaugh's assertion that they have turned down multi-million dollar films in favor of projects they liked better underscores the significance of personal artistic fulfillment in decision-making.

Furthermore, the quote sheds light on the dichotomy within the entertainment industry, where there are projects that are pursued primarily for their commercial viability and financial return, and others that are undertaken out of genuine passion and artistic interest. Mothersbaugh's mention of having projects that "make the money" alongside those that are done "for love" highlights the coexistence of these two motivations in the creative process.

This approach to decision-making also speaks to the autonomy and creative control that established artists and industry professionals may have. It suggests that, when artists have achieved a certain level of success and stability, they are better positioned to make choices that align with their artistic vision and personal preferences, rather than being solely driven by financial imperatives.

In a broader context, this quote reflects the ongoing tension between art and commerce in the entertainment industry. It highlights the balancing act that artists often face when navigating between commercial opportunities and artistic fulfillment. It also underscores the value of staying true to one's creative instincts and artistic principles, even in the face of potentially lucrative offers.

Overall, Mark Mothersbaugh's quote encapsulates the idea that artistic integrity and personal passion play a crucial role in decision-making, even in an industry where financial considerations often loom large. It serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a balance between commercial success and creative fulfillment, and the luxury that established artists have in being able to prioritize projects based on their artistic preferences and passions.