You're so right about inventors. We know one (who is a bonafide genius) and has gotten far less credit/compensation for his work than he should have. This guy is luckier than most too because he, at least, is getting some compensation.
I feel the tools are available now for artists to make a career more quickly without the need for a benefactor, like the old days. The key is really networking/marketing/audience building on social media.
That is the key @ericvancewalton. I have worked in the product world for games, toys, inventions, creations, etc and met many artists of all walks of life. Nowadays you don't have to hope for the one person to see your work to come sweep you away, there are so many means of doing it yourself. Of course you have to know those means and learn them. Its not easy for everyone, there's a lot to learn, but doable.
~bluerocktalk🖖