I would say it depends on YOUR perspective. I tend to think from what you say that it is a vocation. There are just folks out there that just don't get it. They don't appreciate the vision, cost, and labor that goes into making a quilt. I remember going to a high school reunion and when I told them I was a catering director their response was but what are you really going to do? That's just not a real job! I was working for Intercontinental Hotels at the time, and didn't that a fair assessment. My daughter is in college now, and bless her heart she wants to be a politician! Now is that a hobby, or a vocation?
I hope you see my point, there will always be people who question what we think and do. Fortunately, the world is made of many people and none of us are alike, so do what fulfills you, what makes you want to get out of bed and tackle the project at hand.