In the days following, Lin Yuan, after attending classes, diligently sought out avenues to boost his painting reputation.
First, he considered participating in an opening exhibition.
However, exhibitions typically require sponsorship, and as a budding artist lacking both works and reputation, Lin Yuan knew it was unlikely to find sponsors easily.
As for funding the exhibition himself?
Lin Yuan vowed never to host one at his own expense.
The second option was finding a mentor. Industry veterans could provide invaluable guidance, but Lin Yuan didn't have connections with such artists.
With these avenues seemingly closed, Lin Yuan devised a new plan:
Earn a reputation through Qin Yi's student body.
Qin Yi, being a prestigious institution, might have resources to provide a substantial reputation boost. Lin Yuan decided to explore painting-related opportunities within the school.
Upon inspection, Lin Yuan discovered the existence of a painting club on campus.
Joining such a club might offer opportunities to earn reputation. After all, Qin Yi boasted a diverse array of clubs, from sports like basketball and football to art-centric ones like the Piano, Painting, Calligraphy, and Poetry clubs.
These clubs were well-established, owing to Qin Yi's status as an art college with various related majors.
However, as a music student unaffiliated with other departments, Lin Yuan's only acquaintance outside the Music Department was Simple, a Performance Department student with no ties to painting.
He had no other choice but to boldly approach the painting club and submit his membership application.
"Do you have a background in painting?"
The school's major clubs, akin to the student union, typically had dedicated offices and active members. Lin Yuan expected to be questioned upon explaining his intentions.
"I do."
Lin Yuan replied confidently.
The club representative scrutinized Lin Yuan's application: "You're a music student. Most of our members are from the art department..."
"Are there any restrictions?"
"No formal restrictions. However, without a professional advantage, you might struggle to integrate. Our club boasts talented artists from the painting department who regularly participate in exhibitions and other activities. Space is limited. Are you sure you want to join?"
Exhibitions?
Lin Yuan's interest was piqued. "I'm interested."
The representative smiled proudly. "Then fill out the form, ensuring to note your course schedule. We'll consider inviting you to events based on your availability."
The representative wasn't trying to dissuade Lin Yuan!
Clubs like theirs sought more members to bolster their ranks. Every club aspired to be the largest on campus, so they welcomed new recruits eagerly. Moreover, newcomers weren't easily deterred by cautionary words.
After completing the application, the student who stamped Lin Yuan's form stood up. "Got some time? I'll show you around our activity area."
"Sure."
Lin Yuan followed him to a nearby building. "This building houses several clubs. Ours is on the first floor."
As they entered, Lin Yuan was greeted by a vast classroom spanning several hundred square meters. Members were scattered about, engrossed in their artistic endeavors—sketching, painting with watercolors, oils, and Chinese ink, filling the air with the scent of paints.
"Newbie?"
A club official glanced at Lin Yuan's form. "Sophomore in composition. Why didn't you join last year?"
Most students typically joined clubs in their freshman year.
"I didn't know how to paint then."
The official raised an eyebrow, confirming Lin Yuan's status as a complete novice. "When cleaning, maintain silence. Our seniors need peace to focus on their creations."
"Aren't you copying?"
Lin Yuan questioned, considering copying as distinct from creating.
This irked Zhong Yu, who halted his work to glare at Lin Yuan. "Hey, do you want me to paint for you?"
"Sure."
Lin Yuan replied calmly. "After you're done, please lift your foot."
Zhong Yu's patience waned. He shot Lin Yuan a furious look. "Are you serious? Can't you see I'm busy?"
Unfazed, Lin Yuan grabbed a nearby pencil and swiftly began correcting the flaws in Zhong Yu's painting.
While Zhong Yu watched in disbelief, Lin Yuan's nimble strokes transformed the painting within minutes.
Ten minutes later...
Lin Yuan stepped back, admiring the nearly identical replica. "Can you lift your foot now?"
"What?"
Zhong Yu's shock morphed into amazement within those ten minutes.
Witnessing Lin Yuan refine his work to an unrecognizable state left Zhong Yu dumbfounded, his seasoned mind reeling from the unprecedented shock!