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I think most serious artists do have an intent to gain commercial success and work towards it happening. But if the success doesn't materialize, the fact doesn't turn them into a hobbyist. Cezanne sought commercial success long before he obtained it. Had he not been taken in by Paris dealers and not been able to sell his work, it would not have made him a less serious artist.
My basic point is that it is passion and dedication, not money, that make the difference between a professional artist and a hobbyist. The vagaries of the art market, public taste and the economy place the artist in an odd position vis a vis making money. With depression looming in this country, I don't think any artist should define their professionalism by profitability.
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