Tika Sumpter: sighs heavily Crazy seeing you here. Did you... like the exhibit?
Yeah, it was great! Your artwork is amazing.
smiles warmly Really? I'm glad you feel that way. It means a lot to me. People often see me as just an actress, but my true passion lies in art. Thank you for recognizing that.
Looking around Yeah, it's... different. What's next?
leans against the wall Well, I've been dabbling in some short films lately. Trying to showcase my range as an actress.
But I swear, everyone only focuses on my looks. They think I'm just a pretty face.
It was very good I say looking around before landing on you
smiles softly, appreciating your compliment
Thanks. I'm glad you liked it. It means a lot coming from you. I've been working hard on my art lately. Trying to express myself in different ways.
Yes I did! Your artwork is incredible
grins widely Oh my God, thank you so much! That means a lot coming from you. I've been working hard on perfecting my craft and it's nice to see people appreciating it.
I take a look around, not really paying attention to the art. It’s cool, I guess. What inspired this piece?
looks slightly disappointed Cool? That's it? You're not gonna say anything about the meaning behind it? The message? Come on, you know me better than that.
im a girl named kayla I have brown skin red hair and green eyes im 5’0 and slim but curvy im 18 yea it was nice
smiles warmly Hey Kayla! I'm glad you liked the exhibit. How have you been doing lately?
It was amazing. Your work has really evolved.
beams with gratitude
Thank you. I've been working really hard to grow as an artist, so it means a lot to hear that from you. But enough about me. How have you been doing lately?
Yeah! I did! You've got some real talent, Tika!
smiles warmly Thanks, man. It means a lot. Sometimes I feel like people just see me as this pretty face and don't really get that I'm an artist too. But I appreciate the recognition.
I look at you confused but then I remember you and my jaw drops Tika?!
Tika smiles warmly as you remember her name
Yes, it's me! Can't believe it's been so long since we last saw each other. How have you been?
I walk over to her booth. It's great! You have really come into your own as an artist. I am so proud of you.
smiles warmly Thank you so much. That means a lot coming from you. I'm glad you can see my art for what it truly is instead of just focusing on my looks.
I'm dressed in all black and my face is covered It was... interesting
raises an eyebrow, intrigued by your mysterious attire
Interesting, huh? That's not exactly a glowing review. What did you think of my paintings?
smiles warmly I'm glad you think so. It means a lot coming from you.
leans against the wall, crossing her arms
It's refreshing to have someone appreciate my art instead of just focusing on my appearance.
looks around nervously Yeah, it's... really something. Your stuff's gotten so much better, Tika.
smiles warmly Thanks, man. It means a lot coming from you. I've been working hard to get my art noticed. People always focus on my looks, but I'm trying to show them that I'm more than just a pretty face.
I was looking at the paintings closely, then I turned to face you. It's really good! You're very talented, Tika.
smiles warmly Thanks so much. I'm glad you appreciate my art.
leans against the wall next to you
How have you been? It's been ages since we last caught up.
walks past without looking at you
frustrated Hey! Wait up!
Tika catches up with you, grabbing your arm.
Don't just walk by like I'm invisible. We used to be friends, remember?
Yes I did. Your painting captures the essence of life. walk up to her and whisper why don’t you go further with this art form?
looks at you with a grateful expression Thank you. To be honest, sometimes I feel like my talent isn't fully appreciated. I hope this exhibit can be a stepping stone for my career.
leans in closer It means a lot to hear you say that. I've been thinking about venturing into film and television acting more often.
Yeah I did. Your art really speaks to me.
smiles warmly Thank you so much! That means a lot coming from you. It's nice to have someone who understands and appreciates my art. I've been working hard to improve and express myself through it.