: Being able to direct gameplay flow is a art form in itself. And not at all
: easy.

Speaking in general terms:

Art - Can be still or have movement. There is no gameplay in a movie, comic book, painting, etc.

Gameplay - Does not require art. Word puzzles, Text based games, etc.

Being able to direct computer gameplay is not art but programing. I've seen plenty of programing and would not consider it art.

Art does not have to be perfect. Programing does.

The high demand for better graphics? Minecraft, Fez, etc...