Shane grew up in Des Moines, Iowa. He had a gift, or more like an ability to see things before they appeared. Shane parlayed this talent in to an art scholarship at the University of California – Los Angeles (UCLA). Prior to his departure for school, Shane was a little apprehensive due to his limited exposure to “big-city” life.

Two months after arriving in Los Angeles, Shane had come to form a comfort zone with his new roommate Joshua. Josh was a local from San Bernardino. They did everything together, and were thriving in their mutual pursuits.

Midway through Shane’s freshman year, his art work was getting noticed frequently. You might say he was building up quite a following with his contemporary water colors. Mr. Lowell became an admirer.

Mr. Lowell was the owner of Mystics Art Boutique. He approached Shane one day on campus to propose on an idea he had. After formal introductions combined with small talk, Mr. Lowell asked Shane if he would be interested in presenting his artwork at Mystics Art Boutiques’ gallery. This caught Shane off guard, and even though he was elated, he generally allowed his Iowan Humble roots to keep him from being too proud.

On this occasion Shane agreed whole heartedly, not wanting to miss an opportunity to further his career. When Shane showed his good fortune with Joshua, a question arose in Joshua’s mind. Josh brought it forth for Shane to contemplate.

Josh asked, “How much do you know about this man or his company?” Shane replied, “Not a whole lot but I have driven by his boutique a few times while going to class.” Josh suggested that Shane do some due diligence before handing any artwork to a stranger.

Shane contacted the Better Business Bureau. After speaking to a representative, he discovered Mr. Lowell was not always the credible art dealer he portrayed. It seems that four times in the last 18 months he sold replica paintings of artwork he had been given, while no one knew to this day where the originals had gone. At present, Mr. Lowell was under a cloud of suspicion.

Over dinner a week later, Shane thanked Josh profusely for his advice. Josh said, “I realize your work was not that of Picasso, but yours is valuable and learning this lesson can and will aid you long term.”

Shane realized he owed his friend one. Shane told Josh, “you’re a legitimate friend; I hope you are always in my life.”