“Woah… What is this place?!”
Brielle and I stepped into a hall, and immediately, our jaws dropped in disbelief at the sheer size of the area!
The vast expanse of the hall unfolded before us, reminding us that this was no ordinary art school. The high ceilings, supported by elegant pillars and piers made us feel we're in a castle. But despite this extravagant architecture that could only be made by the elites, we felt comfort due to the soft lighting that illuminated the place. This gave an ambience that casted a warm glow upon the sculptures. To top it all off, a classical symphony- “Arcangelo Corelli: La Folia” filled the airwaves, adding the feels of timelessness and sophistication.
During this special day, crowds of students and parents strolled within the space. I could hear their murmurs of admiration and curiosity as they echoed throughout. Their eyes traced the outlines of sculptures standing at every turn, analyzing and appreciating the artistry.
I can't forget to mention about these sculptures, alright. All around, you'd be terrified yet amazed, they stood like sentinels! Large and tall... I'd say, around 200 cm? Heck, even the tallest adults in the room couldn't compare, so you'd wonder how students of average heights built such things. Most of these sculptures embodied humans and animals in a graceful way, and were crafted with smooth white marbles or the richness of deep bronze. These pieces seemed to be more of the people’s liking. They found themselves lingering longer to those pieces, drawn to classical and timeless beauty.
Although it seems the general opinion favors the classics, Guevarra as an Art School emphasizes the breaking of boundaries, thinking outside the box— Sculptures formed with unconventional materials, such as clay, wood, metal and sometimes found objects, occupied the place as well. They stood out with their diverse range of shapes and colors, adding abstraction within the gallery’s collection. These creations showed an artist’s creativity and intellect with their ability to showcase beauty with nontraditional methods.
With my eyes glued onto every sculpture, I spoke as I walked, “Although I’m not really into sculpture, I sure am impressed by all of this.”
“Me too.” Brielle replied, “Students of Guevarra really are something else.”
As we continued exploring, we came to realize what this grand space actually was — It was the school’s renowned Sculpting Gallery!
A sanctuary of creativity and craftsmanship, showcasing masterpieces created by the talented students of the Sculpting Strand. This gallery did not only display finished works, it also provided insights within an artist’s vision—Below each sculpture, drafts of sketches were displayed as well, showcasing the evolution of ideas.
With curiosity, Brielle looked into a sketch, then raised her head at the sculpture. “..It really is real. I can see how they created this. Not to mention, if you look closely…”
Brielle pointed at a part of the sculpture, staring deeply within its details.
“You can see the sculptor’s fingerprints.”
“W-WOAH!” I gasped, letting out a laugh. “Good attention to detail, Brielle. I wouldn’t have noticed!”
“I bet the Sculpting Strand has to be the hardest one in this school.” I said, “Just think about the physical labor that comes with making things this size!”
“Indeed.” Brielle replied. “As a painter, I feel so small and less in comparison.”
Hearing that, I received an idea.
“Why don’t we go find the Painting Gallery next, then? We can surely learn from the paintings, get a few ideas here and there.”
“Okay.” Brielle smiled, a long one at that. It's... uh, how do I put it...
..Quite the rarity throughout everything we’ve been through.
Nevertheless, I was overjoyed.We navigated through the crowds and sculptures, retracing our way back to where we came from. The atmosphere around us remained unchanging— with crowds admiring all sorts of sculptures, the classical symphony, the diversity of sculptures by students…
Going through everything together, it was as though time had stopped. I felt so wild and free... like I had everything in my hands, and I was finally allowed to enjoy the present moment. It was refreshing, and I hope Brielle felt the same as well.
Amidst all the bustling crowds and commotion of this gallery, there stood a lone boy, immersed in one particular sculpture — His very own creation, representing his deepest desires. Upon looking at it, one could tell its immediate differences from the other displayed sculptures. It boasted the most expansive size range, larger than the sentinel-like figures around. Its scale suggests that its sculpture must’ve used lifting devices during its craft. Although most sculptures within the area focused on a singular aspect or character, this one displayed multiple - perhaps a story…
It depicted a yelling warlock, his hair rising in the wind and his left eye shining with a crimson gem inside. Similar to traditional sculptures, this warlock had a huge, muscular body. His body showed the aftermath of battle— Indicated with scratches, dirt and blood throughout his skin, and as well as his torn clothing. A warlock that held immense physical strength, shown with his popping veins and power as he restrained a trample of distorted bodies beneath him using a spear. His overall physique suggested that he struggled to get where he was, but won nonetheless.
He knelt before a crowned figure that stood below, who emerged from the moldy ground. The king’s arms raised, displaying the power he held over the warlock — Thanking him for his sacrifice, and instilling new power within him as reward.
Overall, it embodied a graphic storytelling narrative. With its size, one would feel as if they’re part of the story itself, witnessing firsthand the corruption of rulers. It’s a genius, artistic masterpiece, only could have been made by someone with exceptional talent. A sculptor with the patience, intelligence and will to turn a mere marble into a masterpiece.
Below the creation, a sign reads “Slave of a Legend - By Melvin Guevarra”
Melvin studied his sculpture in silence, his head turning at every detail with curiosity. His expression remained motionless, his natural cold stare showing no positive emotion despite the impressive nature of his work.
Being the principal’s son, Melvin had the privilege to build his sculpture within the academy’s gallery. Due to its planned expanse, he built it at the furthest of the hall, where very few traverse. A masterpiece only to be appreciated by those willing to walk all the way.
Melvin, however, didn’t see this as something negative. The area became his sanctuary of euthymia, where he would peacefully work on his sculpture during the crafting process. Adding to the area’s tranquility, were its surrounding blank, white walls. The subtle, neutral atmosphere gave little to no distraction to the young sculptor. The area also had large windows that reflected the sun indoors, providing both light and warmth for his comfort. It came along with a view of mere grass fields, giving him access to fresh air and nature.
Being a public place, the chances of people stumbling by remained possible. Though he didn’t mind as much, as those who were willing to walk to the gallery’s end were like-minded artists— Those who were just below his talent-level, and intelligence. He found them delightful, enjoying both their company and the deep, intellectual conversations he had with them.
“I can’t believe you made this alone, Melvin.” A familiar voice spoke, coming from right beside him.
“Only someone with superpowers can create something like that.”
Melvin gave a subtle smile, and chuckled. “Thanks. I’ll take that as a compliment—”
He turned his right, finding no one to be seen… But a fading, shadow figment of his imagination which then vanished entirely.
…
He lingered in silence, giving no reaction but a short gasp. Around him, the environment persisted the same— The natural light shining into the spacious, empty area where none but his sculpture stood… and the tune of the classical symphony echoing from a distance.
Processing the situation, as strange as it was — Melvin stood there and breathed, calm and composed. It was as if such an occurrence had happened many times. Though his shift was subtle, responding as if a dear friend was there— he redirected his gaze back onto his sculpture, returning to his usual self.
In contrast to his expressive and commanding twin sister, Melvin became known as the “Quiet Twin”. A boy who prefers to spend his time alone, reading a book or mastering his craft. He is usually spotted in places of silence, such as gardens or libraries, never disturbed by commotion within his school.
Besides his lineage, he gained popularity for being a cold, mysterious guy— A charming feature to a lot of girls. Whenever they talked to him, he would only give a short and blunt response. He doesn’t give much attention to them, so even a mere eye contact with him is seen as rewarding. If they had the courage, they would confess their feelings to him, handing him a letter and a flower…
“M-Melvin… I just wanna say, your artworks are amazing, and you’re just really smart. I-I think I l-like you—”
“Thanks.”
Just for him to get up, and move away to a different spot.
His nonchalant attitude, and unexpressive nature differs him from other guys in school. It deems him as a person who is confident with their talents, not looking for people’s validation. He’s aware of his worth, thus, is selective about who he engages with.
Due to these characteristics, he is often put on a pedestal. Anyone would feel honored to have him as a friend. He would only converse with his classmates whenever it came to academics, making it harder to earn a deep connection with him.
To even have a proper conversation with him, one must befriend Megan first. Megan, together with Aria, would hold these hangouts or parties, exclusively inviting those they deem “worthy”— usually the popular, wealthier kids. Melvin always appeared in those events, a reason for a lot of girls giving it their all into befriending Megan.
…
…
…
“Oh my god!! It really is him!!” “I was right!! He’s hiding here all along~”
“AAHH!!! Hi Melvin~”
Three girls bursted into the area, their squeaky screams causing a disturbance to his peaceful euthymia. Melvin’s expression darkened, his eyes showing slight anger and disgust. He recognized them not as appreciators of artistry, but rather as fangirls drawn to his looks and charm.
“It’s good to see you again, Melvin~” One of them greeted. “Will you be at Megan’s next party?”
The three girls approached him, though he did not take his eyes off his sculpture.
He returned to his stale look, uninterested in their presence. “..And who are you three?”
“Awww~” Their faces reddened, as they giggled and twirled their hairs. “Look at him, pretending to not remember us~”
“Ahhh!! It’s so charming!”
“So, Melvin~” One of them asked, “You must know me already, I’m a regular at your sister’s parties.”
“Would you like to go out sometime? Just the two of us?”
Hearing that, the smiles dropped from the two girls’ faces, replaced by seething anger as they growled in frustration.
Melvin decided to speak up, a blunt tone which would indicate his disinterest. “I’m afraid—”
“What?! Y-You can’t just ask him out!” They shrieked in jealousy. “I-I’m a regular too, you’re not special!”
Before he could finish, the other girls interrupted him, bursting into an argument.
“Your parents are literally office-workers! While mine runs a whole company.” One girl bragged, “What makes you think you’re better than me?!”
“Y-Yeah?! At least mine are happily married, while yours are signing divorce papers!” The other yelled back.
The girl took a sharp breath, feeling personally attacked as her anger reached its boiling point.
"AT LEAST I didn’t have to apply for a SCHOLARSHIP when ENROLLING HERE!”
“You girls are worthless!” The last girl called them out, “Melvin’s obviously going to love someone of artistic background!”
“..Which is me, of course! My parents are veteran theater actors, who used to study in this school with his father—”
“NOBODY CARES!”
The three of them continued to argue, yelling and throwing creative insults at each other. Their piercing voices echoed across the gallery, drowning out the classical symphony and causing a disturbance further away. The people throughout the halls turned their heads towards the noise, wondering about the commotion. However, they chose to distance themselves, not feeling the need to get involved.
Melvin sighed, disappointed in the misbehavior that some people held. In a moment like this, he would choose to walk away. However, the likelihood of them noticing, and causing more trouble makes it not worth the risk. So he stood there, silent with his eyes glued on his structure, waiting for the perfect moment to run past.
…
“Hey!” A new voice called out to the girls. “You three are friends of Megan, right?”
Melvin huffed, it was about time someone came along and eased the situation. But with the new person mentioning his sister, he couldn't help the need to raise his guard.
Could this be another one of her wealthy friends? If so, he wondered why he couldn't tell whose voice this was, despite sensing a bit of familiarity.
Nevertheless, if him getting rid of these bothersome girls meant continuing with peace, he would be content with playing along for a while.
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