Whispers in the Gallery

Chapter 4

Maya stays up all night painting, pouring her heart out, stroke after stroke. In the morning she feels so much better. Feeling confident, she throws on a crop top, once again thanking God that her lack of food had given her stomach the illusion of being relatively flat, she pairs it with a pair of light blue cargo jeans. Turning to look at an untouched pile of skinny jeans, she sighs, her confidence was not at that level yet, it probably never was going to be.

Hurrying out of her apartment once again, she picks up her easel, gives the piece on it a once over and takes it with her. Something is missing, she thought as she decided to take it to work with her, maybe being surrounded by artworks of famous artists would give her the inspiration she needed to throw in her finishing touch. Her problems still remained, hell her landlord had sent her a suggestive text that morning, obviously not expecting her to be able to wiggle her way out of his offer; she had ignored the text and decided to just wing things. Worrying would do her no good so while she would try her best to look for a solution, she was not going to be desperate about it. If push came to shove she would have no choice other than to return home and give in to her parents’ tyranny once more, a situation she could only pray would never happen.

Strolling into the gallery, she said a silent prayer upon noticing Flora's absence, the last thing she needed was a reminder of how unhappy her life was. Setting her easel down, she decided to have a walk around the gallery, unaware of the presence of another human being.

~

Sebastian walked around the gallery alone. He had told off the clingy manager and requested that he be allowed to look around alone. As an art collector, he was used to seeing works from famous artists like Jeff Koons, Bansky, Takashi Murakami and the likes so he was not particularly interested in any piece he saw, none made him curious enough.

Amidst the familiar strokes of renowned artists, Sebastian's discerning eyes locked onto an unassuming masterpiece—a captivating anomaly in the gallery's curated tapestry. This piece, untethered from the conventional constraints of wall mounts, unfolded a narrative of dynamic chaos and serenity.

A symphony of colors cascaded from the canvas, dancing harmoniously in defiance of gravity. Intricately textured, the artwork invited tactile exploration, with swirls and contours revealing a nuanced interplay of light and shadow. Its essence whispered tales of unseen realms, compelling Sebastian to unravel the mysteries concealed within the unrestrained strokes and suspended poetry of this unconventional masterpiece. It was not hung up and he wondered why as that was a piece that was sure to fetch millions. Walking towards it, he stretched his hands to touch the canvas but was stopped by a voice,

“Uh… do you like that piece sir?”

Keeping his eyes fixed on the piece, Sebastian replies, “Ah, yes. This piece is truly captivating. The way it defies convention is remarkable. Why is it not on display like the others?”

The person sighed sadly, “Some works are better left hidden I guess ”

Sebastian continued, “Well it has certainly caught my eye. I wonder what could possibly have inspired such a departure from the conventional?”

“I wanted the observer to not merely see but experience the artwork, to feel the dance of colors as they wander freely.”

Surprised, Sebastian asks, “you made this?”

A soft “yes” sounds from behind him.

Sebastian smiles “I think you have achieved that beautifully. Yet, I sense a whisper of uncertainty in your voice. Is something amiss?”

Hesitantly, the artist answers “It's hard to put into words. I feel like there's a missing note in this symphony, a void I can't quite define.”

Thoughtfully, Sebastian offers, “Let's explore that together. What if we enhance the interplay of light and shadow? Or perhaps introduce an element that subtly bridges the realms of chaos and serenity?”

Obviously intrigued, the artist explains, “You may be onto something. A delicate balance, like a fleeting moment captured in time.”

“I appreciate your vision. In fact, I'm so captivated by it that I'd like to make an offer. I'd love to purchase this piece.” Sebastian says boldly, finally turning back.

“You? What? Are you stalking me now?” He asks sarcastically. “Cheap much?”

An equally shocked Maya can simply point out, “I work here sir”, determined not to repeat her mistake of upsetting him as he obviously seemed to be someone incredibly influential

Catching himself, Sebastian clears his throat, realizing she is right. Maybe this is the chance to keep her close and find out what about her intrigues me, until I get sick of her anyways.

Sebastian, his pride undiminished, surveyed the piece with a critical eye. “I guess even druggies can make something good. I see potential, but it lacks refinement. Perhaps you could benefit from guidance. I'm willing to offer my expertise."

Maya, aware of the power dynamic, bit her lip nervously. "I appreciate the offer sir, but I'm used to working alone. I have my own vision, besides this piece is not for sale. As you have previously pointed out, it is unhung."

Sebastian, asserting his dominance, leaned in slightly. "Your vision could use some polishing. I'm offering you an opportunity to elevate your art. Don't let your pride blind you to growth. I want that piece and I would get it either way, it is your choice to decide if you would want to benefit from it or not"

Maya, feeling the weight of his presence, hesitated. "I... I'll think about it."

Sebastian, satisfied with her tentative response, straightened up. "Good. You have potential. Don't waste it by clinging to your feeble independence."

Maya, her confidence shaken, nodded meekly. "Thank you, sir."

As they converse, they remain unaware of the jealous eyes watching them. Flora, upon noticing Sebastian's interest in Maya's ‘garbage’ storms out angrily towards them.