The days following the exhibition were more complex than I had anticipated. People's attention, praise, and criticism came in droves; every message, every comment left a lasting impression. I felt both pride and a sense of pressure: expectations had grown, and I had to constantly push myself to improve.
Selin had messaged me again:
"You've made a good start, but don't be afraid to confront shadows. Darkness nourishes art as much as light. Are you ready?"
My heart pounded as I read her message. I tried to grasp the meaning of Selin's words. "Facing the shadow…" I suppose this wasn't just technical advice, but also meant I needed to confront my own inner fears, my talents, and my limitations.
That day, working alone in my studio, I looked at an old painting. I remembered the excitement of the first day; the chaos and curiosity with which I began. Now, every brushstroke was more careful and deliberate. But at the same time, I didn't want to forget to take risks. I asked myself, "Am I brave enough?"
That's when the idea for a new project came to me. Techniques I'd never tried before, unusual color combinations, and unconventional textures… It seemed daunting at first, but it also made my heart race. This was what Selin had said: confronting shadows; overcoming my own limitations and taking risks.
In the evening, Emir called me. His voice always provided a kind of balance:
"Lina, sometimes the darkest moments bring the brightest ideas. I trust you."
His words gave me courage and I picked up the brush again. Every color, every line represented both my fears and my hopes. As the hours passed, the canvas began to take on meaning—a kind of balance, a combination of shadow and light.
After working through the night, I took one last look at my work. I felt a sense of satisfaction, but also a new sense of responsibility. Art was no longer just a form of expression; it was a struggle, a journey, and an exploration. Selin's shadow still hung over me, but I no longer saw it as a threat, but as a guide.
And I realized once again that art is not just about brush and color, but also about courage, risk, and the courage to confront our own shadows. My path may have been long and arduous, but now I knew I could carry my own light and shadow together.