It's unfortunate that your experience with unappreciative clients made you turn away from being a painter. I think you are skilled and creative, and can have opportunities as an independent artist. If I was shopping for a lion tee, I would buy yours, it's beautiful.

Artists throughout time, from Da Vinci to the animators who created the Lion King were mistreated and undervalued by those who paid them. I believe we now have tools and methods to be financially independent and to create for ourselves.

Whatever creative, or non-creative, path you will find fulfillment in. It looks like you're going to do great!