The days following the exhibition were both exciting and confusing. I had a busy schedule filled with messages, emails, and phone calls. I kept in touch with Emir; talking to him instilled both confidence and a sense of wonder. But at the same time, I knew I had to take bigger steps in my art.
Elif's constant messages of support gave me strength:
"Lina, your talent is being recognized! The next exhibition should be even bigger!"
And it was. I promised myself that from now on, I wouldn't just create paintings that adorn my walls; I would also showcase my own style and story in a more powerful way.
But that day, an unexpected message arrived. The name I saw on the screen was both familiar and a little intimidating: "Selin Aras."
The message was short but clear:
"I have some advice for you. You're not alone in the exhibition world. Let's meet."
My heart pounded. Selin was an artist I'd met a while ago, but she was quite competitive and fierce in her own way. She always tried to appear one step ahead, outshining everyone else. But now, she was contacting me. I was filled with a mixture of curiosity and a slight unease.
That evening, Emir and I met at a café. Talking to her always felt good. But when I opened Selin's message, a slight spark appeared in her eyes: curiosity, but also a warning.
"Selin Aras..." Emir said, his tone turning slightly serious. "She's ambitious. She might seem like she's just giving advice, but you should be careful."
After our conversation, my mind was still on Selin's message. The next day, I decided to go to the art studio she'd specified to see her. When I walked through the door, I immediately recognized the determination in Selin's eyes. The entire studio was filled with her works—colors, textures, and each one carrying a bold expression.
"Lina," Selin said, her voice both friendly and challenging. "Your work is interesting. But you can do more. Trust me, I can show you some paths. But first… you have to be ready."
At that moment, I realized that advancing in the art world wasn't just about talent, but also about strategy and courage. Selin's presence was both an opportunity and a test.
As I left the studio, I took a deep breath. I called Emir and recounted the day's events. At the end of our conversation, he said only one thing:
"Lina, this is your path. But remember, don't lose your own light."
That evening, sitting in my studio, I began sketching new paintings. I felt both excitement and a little fear. Because I realized that this journey would no longer be shaped by colors and brushes; it would also be shaped by the opponents, opportunities, and choices I would face.
And once again, I was ready to take the first step.