Crossword Genius

Mindless pursuit for artist to follow (3,4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

rat race

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'mindless pursuit' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both acts as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'artist to follow' is the wordplay.
'artist' becomes 'ra' (Royal Academician, member of Royal Academy of Arts).
'to follow' becomes 'trace' ('trace' can be a synonym of 'follow').
'ra'+'trace'='RAT RACE'

'for' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for rat race that I've seen before include "Grim struggle" , "constant effort to get ahead" , "Scramble to succeed" , "Hectic futile activity" , "Competitiveness in business - as for rodents?" .)

I've seen this clue in The Hindu.
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