[bryanrasmussen]

in Danish Kunstig main meaning is artificial or synthetic, secondary meaning - does not seem real, natural, or authentic (of upright standing) http://ordnet.dk/ddo/ordbog?query=kunstig

so I don't know that I would say there is a reason for the etymology that relates in any direct way with artists are weird.

[shirian]

Relating to that is that artificial is "konstgjord" in Swedish, i.e. "art made".