The next morning, Selin's words still echoed in my mind: "But first... you must be ready." Ready... This word, while simultaneously inspiring courage, also felt the weight of responsibility. Sitting in my own studio, I picked up my brushes and opened my sketchbook. But the pages remained blank. Every idea seemed small and inadequate in the shadow of Selin's powerful and bold works.
As the days passed, Selin's first assignment emerged: to create a series of portraits. But I needed to convey not only technique but also an emotion that would deeply impact the viewer. Selin's warning still rang in my ears: "Art isn't just seen, it's felt. If you can't achieve this, your path will be more difficult."
That first day, I sat at the canvas for hours. As I mixed colors with my brush, I constantly questioned myself: "Am I good enough? Can I create a powerful statement without losing my style?" My emotions were reflected in the movements of my brush, but I couldn't achieve the desired effect. At one point, I nervously put my brush down and took a deep breath. I called Emir; his voice, as always, was soothing.
"Lina, trust yourself. Selin may be testing you, but remember: Your style and your story are unique. If you try to imitate her, you will lose."
His words brought me some relief. I turned back to the canvas and decided to let go of what was inside me this time. My own memories, feelings, and dreams… They all moved to the tip of my brush. And slowly, the canvas began to take on meaning.
When the first feedback day arrived at Selin's studio, my heart was pounding. I showed my works one by one. Selin looked at them, her eyes filled with both criticism and appreciation.
"You captured a strong expression at first glance," he said. "But some details are still missing. You need to delve a little deeper to connect with the viewer. Be brave, Lina. Don't be afraid."
His words both motivated and unsettled me. But I realized I had to take risks on this journey. I had to develop myself not only technically but also emotionally.
That evening, alone in my studio, I felt a renewed energy. The hours I'd spent at the canvas were no longer filled with fear or anxiety; they were filled with excitement and creativity. I was facing my first serious test, and it had made me realize not only Selin's potential but also my own.
And I realized once again that art wasn't just about colors and brushes; it was shaped by courage and self-confidence. My journey was just beginning, and nothing would ever be the same again.