Chapter 114

Chapter 114

Further explaining, the boy eloquently said that the painters of their atelier were capable of immortalizing the true essence of their subject in a portrait, making sure to elevate the subject’s beauty so as to showcase their best self.

“So it seems.”

“Haha, it’s embarrassing to say, but my teacher has a firm philosophy of beauty. He says that if we don’t put our souls into the paintings we create, then we cannot dare call them art...”

Taking her time, Violet examined the paintings as she listened to the boy’s guided tour. Wherever her gaze touched, the boy added an explanation like a curator.

A finished painting, an unfinished painting, a finished painting that still looked a bit lacking, a painting so beautiful that it was impossible to believe that it was from an apprentice, worth showcasing in an exhibition right away.

Between appreciating the artworks by looking at them with her own eyes and appreciating them while listening to the added details, the experience was quite different.

“My teacher is truly a splendid individual. How is it possible to create such amazing paintings? I wish to learn more, but Teacher is always so busy... But still, I’m very lucky! Only a few of us have been selected as students. Ah, the first time I saw Teacher’s paintings...”

Before he knew it, the boy began to praise his teacher. Perhaps it’s because he was originally talkative, but the words that flowed out of his lips were endless.

He went on to say just how great his seniors from the same teacher were, with such impressive technique. His teacher was currently away for a high noble’s portrait request. Thanks to that, the head of the atelier was away, but it was him who was dutifully tasked to give the guests a guided tour. Much of what he said was information that didn’t really need to be said.

“Wow, really? Actually, Milady also...”

For a chatterbox, another chatterbox was the perfect match. As Mary enthusiastically responded to his remarks, the young painter became even more excited and thus talked even more.

Cairn was the only one who’s out of place here.

While thinking that the boy’s passion was admirable, Violet suddenly raised one question.

“When did you start painting?”

“Pardon?”

“I was wondering why it is that you like to paint.”

Once again, Violet was swept away by impulsiveness as she asked this question. The boy wasn’t expecting this, so while flustered, he looked around here and there before answering shyly.

The boy conveyed his pure, genuine feelings. Violet looked at the boy’s innocent face and asked,

“If you don’t mind, can you show me your paintings?”

“Pardon? My paintings?”

“Yes. After hearing your story, I was wondering what your pieces look like.”

“Ah, uhh... I’m still very much an amateur, is that alright?”

Violet didn’t reply. The boy led Violet to his spot at one corner of the atelier.

The boy’s paintings exuded the air of inexperience. There were hints of him trying to save his expensive paint, and marks of multiple layers where he couldn’t achieve his desired shapes. Further, it was clear to see his attempts in painting in a way that could save even a single sheet of paper, and traces of his valiant efforts and failures after trying out new techniques.

Truly, it was amateur. Maybe it’s because he usually did odd jobs and errands, but he had a way with depicting backgrounds and landscapes. Those parts were sophisticated and excellent, but that was all.

Nevertheless, Violet silently admired the boy’s art.

“There’s still many things I need to improve on, but I want to work hard and become a famous painter like my teacher.”

“Are you pursuing art because you want to make a name for yourself?”

“Ah, not necessarily. But it feels nice to be acknowledged. If everyone likes my art, and if I can hear their compliments...”

While saying this, the boy looked elated, as though dreaming a pleasant dream.

Violet smiled lightly.

“You’ll get there.”

“Thank you!”

Though it was a small, little dream, it was worth seeing just how far it could soar.