The Exhibition is a Strange Thing(open;casual)

[absol]

It was a beautiful day out to take a nice stroll in the park. There was a small breeze in the air and the sun was in the sky. The temperature was just warm enough to feel good. The only problem with all of this was that Absol didn’t really like taking strolls through the park. He supposed it was more the fact that he didn’t really even like being outside that much. Arianna had finally convinced him to go with her after about three weeks. So far the day had been far from eventful. Sure the park was quaint and peaceful, but it was also boring and bland. It could definitely use some color to say the least. A nice patch of orchids or petunias here and there wouldn’t hurt. That was his artistic side speaking of course. As he thought of art he realized that today was the big art exhibit. He hadn’t exactly planned to go today, but if he was correct it was only a block or two down the road. As they reached the bend he quickly told Arianna that he was going to go visit the gallery. She declined to join him, saying that she was a little tired from the walk and would just head home.

After a quick little walk he arrived at the stairs to the gallery. He climbed them and pushed the doors open. What resulted was a little more dramatic than he expected. The doors practically burst open letting in a gush of wind into the main room. He hadn’t meant to give such a show, but there was nothing to do about that now. He swiftly walked into the main room and attempted to mix in with the rest of the patrons. Within a few minutes everything was back to normal and he started to actually pay attention to some of the art. None of the names really struck out at him as he passed the work. He did have to admit that he had been out of the art world for a little while now. He hadn’t even been to an art gallery for several months. His work as a teacher took up a good portion of his time. The only reason he had known about this event was the fact that he had been sent an invitation in the mail. At least someone had remembered him in the art community.

As he looked through several showcases, he quickly realized that not much of the art was interesting. Most of it was nothing new to him. Some of it didn’t really even show that much talent in his opinion. He supposed he could be a little harsh, but why stay if there was nothing unique or exciting to be found. Just as he was about to leave, however, a small exhibit in the far off corner caught his eye. After a few shoves and pushed he reached the corner. Something about the work had just screamed out to him. He wasn’t quite sure what it was or why he had been drawn to it, but there was just that touch. It was unique and he liked it for that very reason. He would surely have to find this artist and speak with them. He took a few looks around, but couldn’t seem to find anyone that stood out to him. It seemed like he would just have to wait and see.

[JANE EYRE]

One of Jane's students had nominated her for the art show, sending in pictures of her work and a letter or recommendation. Jane hadn't even known about it until she recieved a letter a week previous to the opening, telling her that she had been reserved space for five to seven pieces (depending on their size) and she had been floored by the news. Flattered and excited Jane lived in the moment of being shown like a real artist before the panic set in. She needed at least five pictures worthy of being shown in one of the largest art exhibits in New York. Jane looked through her complete pieces and didn't like any of them so she set out to paint five new ones. Because of the time restraints, Jane had chosen to use water color, rather than oil, and charcoal.

As usual, Jane's pieces were filled with darker imagery than what most people were used to. Her water color pictures, though the colors were soft and gentle, were really nightmares. A man slipping beneath a frozen lake, a man being crucified on a billboard, his face serene, and a revisit of one of her past paintings: children in the street playing with a crack pipe and a bent needle. The charcoal pieces were the same way, disturbed images that got under your skin, making you doubt why you liked the picture in the first place. Jane was a surrealist, she knew that, but she couldn't help but doubt how people would respond to the pictures. Jane had arrived at the set up for the gallery, her pieces matted and framed and hung them up. She had been shoved into a small corner and the was alright with Jane. Seeing her name on the wall, explaining her background and artistic view (all information she had emailed them the day before) was more than enough. She hung the pieces, alternating charcoal and water color, and tacked up their prices. Even though she doubted the art would sell, it didn't hurt to try.

She had dressed nicely for the event, wearing the dark green blouse two strangers turned good friends had bought for her, and a tweed skirt. She didn't stand out among the crowd, the people who looked at her work moved on without so much as glancing in her direction. Feeling somewhat embarassed by it all and feeling less than worthy, Jane stood just to the right of her show, her head down and her hands twisitng a handkerchief restlessly.

[absol]

After waiting for a few moments, he was finally able to get to the front of the crowd and look at the pieces undisturbed. At a closer look he noticed their darker nature. It was definitely an interesting use of juxtapositions and contradicting images. As he took a better look at the pictures he noticed that there was a name labeled on the wall. Apparently the artist’s name was Jane Eyre. After looking over the art for several more minutes he noticed that there was another person that had not moved during the time he had been looking. She was a small woman and seemed to be quite anxious about something. He assumed that she was the artist. Who else would be standing next to an exhibit of work so anxiously? He supposed it was worth a try at least. If it was not her he could just pardon himself and be on his way after all.

“Sorry to bother you,” Absol started after clearing his throat, ” but as I was looking at these pieces, I saw you standing to the side. Seeing as such I presume you to be Jane. Oh how rude of me. I have yet to introduce myself. My name is Absol Papilio. You might recognize the name. I use to do a bit of art myself. Haven’t done much lately due to teaching but things happen. But where am I rambling on like this to someone I don’t even know. You’ll have to excuse me.”

Absol finished with a small smile on his face. He knew that he probably came off as a little strange, but most artists did he supposed. He had yet to meet one talented artist that was considered normal. In his experience it just didn’t happen.

[JANE EYRE]

Jane jumped a little when a man, Absol Papilio, approached her and began talking. Jane had recognized his name vaguely from her education but wasn't familiar with his art. "Yes, of course," Even though she was a little disturbed by his sudden appearance and the full paragraph that he chose to speak in, Jane didn't let it deter her. It would be rude to turn him away. "I am Jane, you were correct in your assumption," The simply fact that he had approached her to talk was something for Jane to be proud of. He was a former artist, now teacher, and he wanted to find her and speak to her. Having been singled out of the entire show wasn't a normal occurance for Jane but the rush it gave her was something she would love to get used to. There was some pride in her work, but not enough for her to expect attention.

"I'm actually a teacher myself. I teach in a high school in Brooklyn. One of my students submitted images of my work, that's how I got the wall space," An artist and a fellow educator! Jane knew almost instantly that she would relate quite easily to Mr. Papilio. Even if he did come across as a bit strange, Jane could relate. People often found her strange in her shyness. For some reason, in New York, manners and a reserved nature were oddities, especially in a business where a living was built off of networking.

[absol]

It seemed that she had been a little surprised at him talking to her. At least she was the artist; that was a start. As she continued talking she seemed to get a little less timid. Maybe she had some spunk in her after all. Her personality was quite different in a place like the city, New York City no less. Few were so timid and even fewer were polite. The fact that she was an art teacher as well seemed humorous to him. After all, what were the chances of two art teachers meeting at an art exhibition? Actually, now that he thought about it, he supposed they were a bit high, but might as well not let that ruin his fun. He did, after all, feel like he could get along with her. She seemed like quite the….interesting person. Maybe that wasn’t quite the right word, but it would have to do.

“Well it’s a pleasure to meet you Jane, or do you prefer Ms. Eyre? I would think that would be a bit stuffy for a young woman like you, but to each their own. The reason I talked to you was to compliment the artist on the fine work they did. Considering that artist is you, I suppose I will be giving you the compliments now won’t I,”Absol said with a small chuckle, “And while I would like to buy all of the pieces, I don’t think it would be fair to others to steal all of it. I suppose I’ll just have to settle for one. Now which one would you suggest since you are the artist?”

He supposed he could have just chosen a piece for himself, considering he was the buyer, but he just didn’t think that was any fun. Anyways, he was curious to see which piece of art she would choose. He could only wonder which she thought was the best. Her choice would also give him a better insight into her as an artist. Personally, he had always found it difficult to pick between his works. Maybe she would be different; he doubted it, but it would still be a fun little test.

[JANE EYRE]

“Well it’s a pleasure to meet you Jane, or do you prefer Ms. Eyre? I would think that would be a bit stuffy for a young woman like you, but to each their own. The reason I talked to you was to compliment the artist on the fine work they did. Considering that artist is you, I suppose I will be giving you the compliments now won’t I,”Absol said with a small chuckle, “And while I would like to buy all of the pieces, I don’t think it would be fair to others to steal all of it. I suppose I’ll just have to settle for one. Now which one would you suggest since you are the artist?”

"Jane is fine, Mr. Papilio," Jane couldn't supress her smile. Mr. Papilio, while he was a bit on the odd side, was quite fun to listen to. Words just rolled off his tongue, no hesitation in anything he said. "And thank you for taking the time to talk. Not many are so curteous," In fact, most weren't even bothered to give feedback of any sort. People would look at her art and move on without even looking at her. Granted, the majority probably did not know that she was the artist. Jane had beent trying her best not to be noticed really, so she couldn't complain. But even when she was trying to show off her art (which wasn't very often) people still didn't talk to her. It was an unspoken rule among spectators not to communicate with the artist.

Then Mr. Papilio mentioned buying some of her art, insinuating that he wanted to buy it all and Jane was gobsmacked. She had met buyers before but never ones who wanted to purchase all of her pieces. Jane gaped at Mr. Papilio in a very undignified manner before she could muster up words. "That's...I'm very honored, Mr. Papilio," She looked at the wall, at the pieces and could not recommend one for him. "I simply cannot suggest one for you as I do not know which piece would work best with whatever space you are planning to fill,"

[absol]

Absol found Jane’s response humorous. Most people didn’t find his company so fascinating; well at least not in this world. He had to chuckle when she called him courteous, since most would consider him quite the opposite. That wasn’t to say that he couldn’t be a gentleman, but rather that he could be a wee bit blunt. As he mentioned buying all of her art, she seemed simply bewildered. It seemed that her work wasn’t complimented very often. That just couldn’t be though. The work had such skill in it. Sure it wasn’t the most refined art he had witnessed, but considering her age she had some real potential. At the moment, however, it seemed like that talent was going to waste. Maybe he would have to change that. For now, however, he needed to choose a piece to take. Oh what fun.

“Oh trust me Jane, I’m hardly a courteous person. I simply recognize good art when I see it and wouldn’t dare think about wasting time not talking with the artist,” Absol paused for a moment, shifting to the side to take another look at the art, “I would hardly be honored by my compliment though miss. I’m merely stating the obvious. And don’t be too hard on yourself; I doubted you would be able to choose a piece for me. I do appreciate that you tried though. Hmmm….I think I’ll have to go with the crucifixion one. Always have been a sucker for some religious symbolism. Oh and please stop calling me Mr. Papilio. It makes me feel much too old. Not to say that I’m not, but still rather not feel like it. Absol will work just fine.”

[JANE EYRE]

"It's rather difficult not to be honored by a compliment when it's the first one you've gotten in a long time," Jane looked over at her paintings. He wanted to purchase the crucifixtion one. It had been one of the hardest to work on. She had to research the human body, finding pictures of similar positions to get the body just right. There was also the matter of what a real crucifixition was like, not the biblical version so many people called on. Yet, even though it had been labor intensive, Jane was quite fond of it. It was probably the one with the most gore but at the same time, it was oddly serene. Even Jane didn't know how she was able to capture such a stark juxtaposition.

"Absol's a unique name, do you know the origin?" Absol's name had been a point of interest for Jane since he introduced himself. Having such a plain name herself meant that she was rather fascinated by other's names. Most of the people she had met thus far equally common names, George, Christine, Catherine. Absol was a perfect name, it inspired Jane in a way that most people couldn't understand. Being a synesthete, the name inspired shapes and colors and Jane could already see another painting to be done once she returned home. It was always that way, inspiration coming from an odd, unexpected place. A name, a sound, the way a newspaper gets stuck on a lamppost on a windy day. It was every where, that tiny glimmer that could be shaped and twisted and molded into whatever painting Jane wanted.

[absol]

It seemed that her work actually wasn’t complimented often. That was very strange indeed. Could no one really see the potential in her work? After her first comment she seemed to take a pause to look at the painting he had chosen. At least it seemed like she respected her own work to give it such careful thought before giving it over. When she asked about his name he had to crack a small smile. He supposed that his name was a tad unique in today’s world. His mother had always been the artistic type and would have no less than a unique name for her son. Of course there was a greater story behind it, but wasn’t there always? He quickly realized he was zoning out again and snapped back to reality.

“Oh yes, it is quite a unique name. Whether that’s good or bad is up to the individual I suppose. But yes, you would be in luck actually, for I do know the origin. My mother was actually a large fan of the Roman poet Ovid; you may have heard of him. In particular, though, she liked Metamorphoses. In said story, there was a centaur named Asbolus. She liked the name and decided that she would name me after him. My father thought the name was a tad long, though, so she decided to shorten it and then we get Absol. Sadly I can’t quite see into the future like the character, but I guess we can’t have everything we want,” Absol took a quick pause seeming to think over what he was about to say.

“Speaking of wanting something, I would like to say that your talents are quite spectacular. Now how would you feel if I said that I would like to take you in as a student and sharpen your skills? Of course the decision is all yours, but I feel like a partnership could benefit both of us. After all, who wouldn’t want to work with me,” he said chuckling at the fact that many did not want to work with him. Hopefully she could see beyond the eccentricity of his character, or better yet maybe she could see him as that very eccentricity. It would be difficult to work with him after all if she didn’t accept that he was quite the eccentric person.

[JANE EYRE]

Jane listend to Absol's explaination of his name with interest. Mythology had always been a theme in her paintings, some aspect of Roman or Greek pantheon working its way into every piece. Roman poetry, Greek philosophers, all of them were a sharp source of inspiration that Jane could always turn to if need be. She nodded every so often as Absol talked, indicating that she was indeed listening to every word. "That's a wonderful story behind your name. Being Jane, there isn't much of one for me,"

“Speaking of wanting something, I would like to say that your talents are quite spectacular. Now how would you feel if I said that I would like to take you in as a student and sharpen your skills? Of course the decision is all yours, but I feel like a partnership could benefit both of us. After all, who wouldn’t want to work with me,”

Again, Jane was gobsmacked. "I would be...I don't..." Jane couldn't find the words. An interested buyer and a proposed partnership all at the same time! Disregarding the last statement, Jane nodded. "I would love to work with you. I've never had proper instruction before and I feel like it would benefit my art a great deal," Jane had taught herself from looking at pictures in books. She had learned to yeild the different mediums through trial and error, using her rough skills to release tension and pent up emotions. Jane was aware that her art was terribly unrefined and wanted that extra bit of knowledge needed to perfect it as much as art could be perfected.

[absol]

Absol found it interesting that Jane actually listened so intently to his little story. Most people didn’t really care enough about his name let alone the mythology behind it. She was definitely an interesting character alright.

”I wouldn’t complain too much about your name. What I would have given for a normal name during childhood….not that I would want the name Jane of course,” he said with a chuckle.

After he had finished proposing his idea it seemed she was at a loss for words. It seemed as if she was flustered quite easily actually. He would definitely need to get her to become more confident in herself and her work but that could wait. Well at least she accepted the offer. The arrangement could definitely be interesting for the both of them. He just hoped that it was as entertaining as he thought it would be.

”Well I’m glad you agreed. It would have been rather awkward indeed if you had not. Now I obviously do not know your previous training, but it is apparent you have talent for art. I teach on all the weekdays for my classes with Tuesday being my heaviest day and Friday being my lightest. I’m free on most weekends although I have been known to sleep quite….heavily during that time. Is there anything I should know about your schedule? After all, I wouldn’t want to be too imposing. It would be rather rude of me.”

[JANE EYRE]

"Well, I teach regular hours during the day, Monday through Friday. I usually take Saturday off just to paint or draw, Sunday I grade assignments for my classes," Jane said without hesitation. Her schedule was very well memorized out of her lack of time. Every moment had to be scheduled to get everything done. Jane's life was packed full of activity at every turn but she figured she could clear up Friday afternoon, after 4:00 pm. Jane told Absol as much.

"I've never had any formal training. I'm self-taught," Jane also told him. She was rather good she knew for a self-taught artist but also knew she could get a lot better. "Whatever you can offer would be great. I want to become better for my students," Jane's purpose was to help her students. That meant becomming better at art and at teaching. Being taught was a great way to absorb new techniques and Jane was sure that this experience would be best for both.