I see what you are saying & I agree; & I've often thought that art isn't "art" unless it's perceived as such (it needs an audience's interpretation to be considered art). That totally makes sense.

But to me, a part of the creative process is intent. I guess I'm just worried because I sense some apathy in myself towards my work. When I can create it thoughtlessly, it is diminished in my eyes. It just feels less like "creating" & more like "manufacturing".