Without doubt technology will help. Never give up. Each compliment, even if it comes from your mother, must be seen as a step to go higher and higher. I saw an opportunity to display my work, but didn't expect to be chosen. I chose the bee because I thought it was the one that best fit for the contest, and I like it.
Art is everything, it is the only human thing which purpose is just itself.
I would prefer to keep it. It's is very important. Is very hard, much more difficult and takes much more time to develop technics without education. I would be more dedicated in the beginning and try to believe a little more in myself. That opportunity would be great.