Dawn Over Ashes
The Encounter
On a rainy Seattle afternoon, an elderly woman entered my art gallery, drenched and silent.
She stopped before a sunrise cityscape and whispered, “That’s mine,” pointing to faint initials—M.L. Her name was Marla Lavigne,
a once-promising artist whose career ended after a tragic fire took her husband, studio, and nearly all her work.
The Discovery
Curious, my assistant and I searched for proof of her claim. Among old gallery brochures,
we found one from 1990 crediting Marla Lavigne for that very painting.
The discovery confirmed her story and began the process of restoring her rightful recognition.
Restoring a Legacy
We corrected the records and held those responsible accountable.
Yet Marla wanted no revenge—only her name back.
I offered her a small studio in the gallery, where she began painting again, her new works filled with quiet strength and resilience.
A Rebirth in Gold
Months later, we held an exhibition titled Dawn Over Ashes, celebrating her revival.
As applause filled the room, Marla smiled softly. “This time,” she said, “I’ll sign it in gold.”
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