My purpose now is not to be a victim again. I've given myself a 10 year plan, so when I get discouraged I remind myself that I've only just begun this challenge. I love a challenge. A question for you, initially, clearly, the work speaks for itself, but it seems that to be taken seriously you need the B.F.A., MFA, etc. I think you might try self-annointment.
School somehow neutralizes some people.
Perhaps schools confuse with the daunting number of pigeonholes. Give consideration to going to your room for ten years. I've noticed in this environment artists often push themselves to the limits of their skills and then some. In the old days it was called character. I think it still is.