I have always thought that credit would be given where credit is due. As the definition goes, I don't need someones approval. I have never felt comfortable with others praise or accolades of my work.
I have always been content with just watching people dig my creations. Whether it was my drawings, my paintings or my fabrication projects. I just have a need to create something. But as I complete each project, I am always left with a desire to do something bigger and better than the last. When you don't really make money off of these creations, finding the money to start the next one is very difficult.
But that desire to create doesn't fade away.
My wife can easily attest to the trials and tribulations of dealing with someone that becomes unbearable to live with, when he can't create the things that obsess his mind. Thankfully, she has done everything possible to finance my projects. To ease that burden on her and our marriage, I have tried to fulfill my need to create by helping others to do the same. This has not always worked out in my favor. I know now that this unwillingness to accept credit and partnering with others to get my "fix", has led to me not getting the credit I deserve.
Before you say,"Wow, this guy is full of himself!", let me explain. I will never expect to make a living off of this hobby. I will always have a "real" job. By not taking credit, I have not given myself the opportunity to keep doing something that I love.
I don't know what recognition I will receive from the next project. But I can guarantee there will be no confusion on who built it.