Amateur artists do not engage in the arts professionally but are actively involved in an artistic discipline as a hobby, a passion or a social commitment. The level of mastery of amateur artists varies hugely, and ranges from enthusiasts practising a hobby for their own enjoyment to semi-professionals who regularly perform as members of a group.

A qualitative distinction between professional and amateur artists is hard to make. Not everyone educated in the arts ultimately chooses a profession in the art sector. Conversely, innate talent and training allow many amateur artists to attain a level that measures up to that of a professional artist.

Educational opportunities for amateur artists who want to improve their skills are provided in the form of courses or lessons at centres for the arts and/or private institutions, as well as by amateur arts associations such as bands or choirs.

Roughly half of the people involved in amateur arts in the Netherlands are members of a club or association. Others practice their art discipline mostly on an individual basis.