Chapter 95: A Collaboration Rekindled
1210words
Now, in the middle of their studio with a big canvas covering the whole wall, they feel new energy. The experience is not only about testing how long they can keep going but also sparking a strong desire inside them to create something amazing.
"Dapo, you remember our conversation in Kano? The one about using our art to make changes?"
Eki agreed, understanding the same in her eyes. "Yes," she responded. "I think it is time we make this dream a reality."
The idea was big, a plan to show all the history of Nigeria's art. They were thinking about making an artistic display that would bring together different regions of the country, blending their unique styles and traditions. Yoruba mythology will be the main focus, acting as a unifying element for everyone joining this event.
"We can call it 'Naija Mosaic'," Eki suggested.
Dapo smiled. "Perfect."
The project was difficult, but both felt happy to work on it. They invited many artists from different parts of the country to join their idea and help make it real. They received many replies. Artists from Kano, Benin, Osun and other locations showed great enthusiasm for the project.
Eki and Dapo had lots of work on the project. They went to many parts of the country, meeting artists, curators, and community leaders. They visited ancient sites, discovered how art was traditionally created, and appreciated the cultural history of each location they explored.
They travelled to Kano and learned about the lively market where people do indigo dyeing. When they went to Benin, they became interested in the detailed beadwork and how bronze casting is done. When they visited Osun, they felt very surprised by the sacred forests and how art holds great importance for spirituality in this place.
Each meeting helped them understand more about the various kinds of Nigerian art. They saw that their project was not only an art display; it also represented the genuine spirit of the country.
As the exhibition opening day came closer, Eki and Dapo were very busy working hard to achieve their dream. The studio was full of noise and lively colours everywhere. Artists from many places in the country come together to share their creativity everywhere.
The installation was forming nicely, a beautiful mix of art and culture. Tall sculptures looked like those from the Nok civilization, intricate beaded works from Benin, bright Kano textiles vividly showing life scenes, and powerful paintings capturing the spiritual essence of Yoruba mythology.
In the last part, Eki and Dapo felt they had achieved something important. They created a special thing that will make an impact for many years in future.
The first night of the show went very well. People liked it a lot because it paid respect and honour to Nigeria's cultural heritage in an artistic manner. People from all walks of life came to see the installation's marvels.
In all this excitement, talking, and waiting, Eki and Dapo felt happiness. They created something alive that brought people together. Their work was not just good art, but it also created unity and respect for their country.
However, as night went on, Eki's mind became increasingly troubled with worry. She started to think that their journey was not finished yet; all the old issues remained and were waiting for them. She understood they would have to confront those issues soon enough.
She looked around and saw a face she recognized. A cold shiver ran through her body when she noticed the woman who had threatened them earlier. That lady was there, watching from a hidden spot and showing an evil smile at the corner of her face in the room.
"See that woman over there?" she pointed discreetly.
Dapo moved his eyes, and his face quickly went from happy to careful. "I know her," he said quietly.
She looked at them, a nasty smile showing on her face. Eki felt cold fear coming closer around her. They were not safe. Not even here, amidst their triumph.
"We need to talk," Dapo whispered, his grip tightening on Eki's hand.
They slipped away from the crowd, finding a quiet corner of the exhibition space.
"I think it's time we called the police," Dapo suggested.
Eki nodded, her mind working fast. It was a risky decision but appeared there was no other way. "We need to remain careful," she expressed. "She's dangerous."
While they were discussing what to do next, some sounds started coming from the main exhibition area. People began pointing and whispering. Eki and Dapo looked at one another with worry on their faces.
They went back, hearts racing. Walking through the crowd, they saw some men standing near one of the artworks. These men were wearing suits and had serious faces.
"What's going on?" Dapo asked, his voice rising.
A man was looking at them. "We are from the National Art Commission," he spoke in a cold and firm voice. "We believe this is not genuine."
Eki and Dapo exchanged a startled look. A copy? They were saying their artwork was just a copy?
"That's ridiculous," Dapo said, his voice filled with anger. "This is original work."
The man made a tiny smile. "We hold this piece for more study," he told his workmates, showing them the object.
Eki felt no hope at all. Everything they had worked hard for, every dream and goal, was falling apart. Moreover, they faced danger not just from this woman's puzzle but also now because officials got involved.
Eki watched Dapo when the men took apart their artwork. In Eki and Dapo's eyes, there was a mix of anger, worry, and determination. They had seen problems before, so they would handle this one also together.
When the men were taking apart their artwork, Eki felt a cold fear inside her. It was like a disaster, as if a bad dream had come true. But in the mix-up, she also turned resolute. They wouldn't let this defeat them.
Dapo's face looked very angry when he saw their hard work getting spoiled. He went near Eki, his eyes showing strong seriousness. "We cannot let them get away without punishment," he said quietly and menacingly.
Eki nodded, her mind racing. They had to fight back. But how could they manage? The authorities were not supporting them, and the strange woman always posed a threat.
Just when they were about to discuss what to do next, a loud crash came from inside the exhibition hall, followed by an echoing scream. Eki and Dapo exchanged fearful glances with each other. Something was wrong, and it was happening fast.
They kept going, their hearts beating very quickly. When they finally got to the place where all the sounds came from, what they saw was something that would stay in their most frightening dreams forever. The unusual woman stood there, showing a look of victory on her face while another person was lying on the ground.
And in the figure's hand, they saw a small, metallic object. A gun.
