Finding Her Canvas

Chapter 40

Lily pov

The summer in Germany has been flying by. I find myself in a mix of excitement and disbelief as I reflect on the past few months. It feels like just yesterday that Mia and I were landing in Berlin, wide-eyed and full of dreams. Now, I'm deep into my internship at the local art studio, and I can't help but marvel at how much has changed.

The studio has become my second home. The first thing I noticed when I walked in was the smell of paint and the sound of busy artists working on their projects. The walls are covered with colorful canvases and inspiring sketches. It's a place where creativity flows freely, and everyone is encouraged to explore and experiment. I've spent countless hours here, soaking up every bit of knowledge and experience.

Working at the studio has been a whirlwind. My days are filled with everything from preparing materials for exhibitions to collaborating with other artists on new projects. Each task has been a chance to learn and grow. I've learned so much about different techniques and styles, and it's been amazing to see how artists from different backgrounds approach their work.

One of my favorite parts of the internship has been mentoring younger artists. There's a group of high school students who come to the studio after school to work on their own projects. They look up to me, and I can see their eyes light up when they talk about their art. It reminds me of when I first started out, full of hope and excitement. Helping them with their projects and sharing my experiences has been incredibly rewarding. I try to offer guidance and encouragement, hoping to spark the same passion for art that has fueled me for so long.

Mia has been a huge support throughout this experience. She's taken to exploring Berlin, discovering hidden cafes and quirky shops, and she's even learned a bit of German. On weekends, we go on adventures together, and it's been wonderful to have a friend to share this journey with. She's always been there to listen when I need to talk about my art or when I'm feeling overwhelmed. Her presence has made this experience even more special.

The studio has also given me a chance to experiment with new techniques. I've been playing around with mixed media, combining different materials to create unique pieces. It's been a fun and challenging process, pushing me to think outside the box and try things I wouldn't have considered before. Every piece I work on teaches me something new, and I'm starting to see how my style is evolving.

The people at the studio have been fantastic. My mentor, an artist named Klaus, has been incredibly helpful. He's shared so many insights and tips, and his feedback has been invaluable. I remember feeling nervous when I first started, but Klaus's encouragement has given me the confidence to push my boundaries. He's always there to offer advice and support, and I'm grateful for his guidance.

Mia and I have settled into a routine here. During the week, I focus on my work at the studio, while Mia explores the city and takes in the sights. We often meet up in the evenings to discuss our day, share stories, and plan our weekends. It's been a great balance, and I feel like we're both getting the most out of our time here.

As the summer progresses, I find myself thinking a lot about my artistic journey. I remember the early days of high school when I first discovered my love for art. I've come a long way since then, and it's incredible to see how far I've grown. I think about the challenges I've faced and the milestones I've achieved. Each experience has shaped me into the artist I am today.

One evening, after a particularly busy day at the studio, Mia and I decided to take a walk around Berlin. The city was beautiful in the twilight, with lights starting to twinkle and the streets bustling with people. We walked through a park and talked about our plans for the future. I shared my thoughts about continuing my art studies and possibly pursuing a career as an artist. Mia listened intently, offering her thoughts and support.

I also think about the students I've mentored. Their enthusiasm and creativity remind me of why I fell in love with art in the first place. It's easy to get caught up in the technical aspects and deadlines, but seeing their passion reinvigorates me. I hope that I can continue to inspire others as much as they've inspired me.

The experience of working in a new country has been eye-opening. It's one thing to learn about art and different cultures from books, but it's another to experience it firsthand. I've had the chance to see how art is celebrated and valued in Germany, and it's been fascinating to see the different approaches and styles. This immersion has given me a broader perspective on art and has helped me refine my own style.

As summer draws to a close, I find myself feeling a mix of emotions. I'm excited to see what the future holds, but I'm also a bit sad to leave this incredible experience behind. The studio has become a place where I feel at home, and I know I'll miss the people and the energy. But I'm also looking forward to bringing what I've learned back with me and continuing to grow as an artist.

The final days of the internship have been busy with wrap-up tasks and farewells. We've had a small party at the studio to celebrate the end of the summer. It was a great way to say goodbye to everyone and to reflect on all that we've accomplished. There were speeches, laughter, and even a few tears. It was a fitting end to an unforgettable summer.

Mia and I are preparing to head back home, but we're taking with us memories that will last a lifetime. The experiences we've had, the people we've met, and the lessons we've learned have made this summer truly special. I'm grateful for the opportunity and for the chance to share it with a friend.

As I look back on my time at the studio, I feel proud of how much I've grown. The summer has been a journey of self-discovery and artistic development. I'm excited to take what I've learned and use it in my future work. And I'm looking forward to sharing my experiences with friends and family when I get back home.

The summer in Germany has been more than just an internship; it's been a transformative experience. I've learned, created, and grown in ways I never expected. And as I prepare to leave, I know that this chapter of my life will always hold a special place in my heart.