Sometimes our greatest rewards come from the most unexpected places. Recently, I had a solo show at a local gallery. The event was well attended with friends, family, artists, art lovers, and some random pedestrians walking by wondering what lies within. I was even fortunate to make a sale quickly in the night.

But of all the things I will remember, it was one stranger who did not say a word. Among all the chatter, laughter, and dialogue, stood a young 'twenty something' year old man. As most people would take in a painting for a moment and then move on, he stood and stared. He stopped at my first painting and had a fixed gaze, oblivious to the people and the noise around him. I watched to see if he would show some reaction, but he just stood fixated.

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, he moved to the next painting and the same thing happened. Motionless from the outside, but something seemed to be stirring from the inside. Between my conversations and handshakes, I would often seek him out to see if there was any noticeable change. Each time, he stood and stared at a painting.

It would have made good business sense to approach and ask him if he likes any particular piece or explore the possibility of a sale, but my intuition nudged me and said, 'let him be'. It was clear he was engaged in dialogue. Whereas all others were talking to people, he was speaking with the subject matter of my paintings. To interrupt this conversation would be rude. I would not abruptly interject in any external conversation of the attendees , so why would I approach this young man? I don't know if he was captivated, repulsed, intrigued or upset - whatever the case, it was clear the conversation was private.

I did not seem him leave, nor did I ever learn his name, but one thing is for sure - I owe him thanks. As artists, we always engage in dialogue with our creations and if we are so lucky, they will one day speak with others.