You could try work in some other aspect of public employment, such as Corrections. After a couple years of that (...which you will likely hate), you'll appreciate the teaching job much more.
If your composition, drawing, and painting skills are very strong, a more positive approach might be to pick up some freelance art jobs for game publishers. They're always looking for skilled fantasy artists, and the pay can be worthwhile. You'll want a "day job" to keep steady income and provide you with insurance, but creative work can be very satisfying. If you have the ability, check the Reaper Miniatures site and Kobold Quarterly for a couple of companies that could help you get your toe in the door.
If your composition, drawing, and painting skills are very strong, a more positive approach might be to pick up some freelance art jobs for game publishers. They're always looking for skilled fantasy artists, and the pay can be worthwhile. You'll want a "day job" to keep steady income and provide you with insurance, but creative work can be very satisfying. If you have the ability, check the Reaper Miniatures site and Kobold Quarterly for a couple of companies that could help you get your toe in the door.