This hits home.
Like you said in your description
"he life that most of us artist may have experienced..."
It is true that a lot of higher ups in companies, bussiness's, etc, do not take artists seriousely and don't pay them as well as they should.
But personally.
I'm use to it.
The key is to take as much freelance work as possible, spend wisely, or get a full time job as an artist.
I know its easier said than done (especially in this economy).
But there are some amazing artists who live comfortably.
It does happen. you just got to never quit your passion and establish a reputation with people who have alot more money than you do.
Its the world we live in today and I don't like it either.