My editor, Jacinda Little, is amazing. Jacinda’s guidance in structuring MIXED MEDIA is responsible for the tension that makes the juicy bits all that more delicious. Thanks to Jacinda, the protagonist of MIXED MEDIA discovers the sensuality thrumming beneath the surface of a still life.
Still Life with Figs by Luis Egidio Melendez, via Art.com
An Excerpt from MIXED MEDIA:
An angel with a pixie cut, she sat at the end of a bench. She conceded a small, welcoming smile before shifting attention to her work. I wanted to swallow her whole, digest the miracle of her fixed stare. Instead, I took a place next to her and started drawing. Together, we created twin reflections of Melendez’s still life with figs. We caressed the sensual curves of the fruit; lovingly shaded the leavened bread; detailed the sweet-juiced slit of an opened fig. Sarah and I finished at the same time, a sort of sex/wine triumph.
I glanced at her. She laughed and said, “I never noticed how thoroughly sexual this painting is. Even the bread looks feminine.”
“Maybe it’s only erotic because we looked at it together.”
“Are you hitting on me?”
I closed my sketchbook, hiding the juicy fig.
“Don’t blush. I didn’t mind.” She extended her charcoal smudged hand. “I’m Sarah.”
About MIXED MEDIA:
Story Blurb
Mario Santa Maria is an artist who has lost his dreams – literally. Insomnia, unemployment, and a failing relationship are his lot. Things are going badly, and then things get strange. On a visit to the Vos Modern Art Museum, Mario discovers he has the ability to intercept the communication between art and a viewer. MIXED MEDIA is a surreal tale of masterpieces, Delphic sugar cubes, and the promise of new perspectives.
What’s hidden by what we see?
You can read MIXED MEDIA for free (PDF), or purchase it on Amazon (5.0 out of 5 stars). If you enjoy the story, please consider leaving a review on Amazon or Goodreads.
The image included in this post is courtesy of Art.com, where you can purchase prints of this work, and thousands of others. Want some art? Click the Rafflecoptor button to enter for a chance to win a $25 (USD) gift certificate at Art.com!
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Aniko Carmean 
Thank you, Aniko, for those kind words. In reality, when a story has great bones like this one, it makes my job an invigorating experience. Additionally, when an author is creative, willing, and talented – as you are – new realms are realized. Thank you for the privilege of working on it with you.
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Thank you, Jacinda. I am glad you get something out of the experience, too! I have fun working with you and hope to send many, many stories your way as I continue my journey. 🙂
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Now that’s a tantalizing excerpt!! Great job, Aniko.
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