A Form of Flattery

by Melissa Leilani Larson

Housecleaner Evelyn Mercado is a self-taught artist who finds quiet joy in casually copying masterworks at the Met. But as she works toward US citizenship and a long awaited reunion with her daughter in the Philippines, Evelyn finds herself drawn into an art forgery scheme that could endanger everything—and everyone—she loves. *in development*

Housecleaner Evelyn Mercado is a self-taught artist who finds quiet joy in casually copying masterworks at the Met. But as she works toward US citizenship and a long awaited reunion with her daughter in the Philippines, Evelyn finds herself drawn into an art forgery scheme that could endanger everything—and everyone—she loves. *in development*

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A Form of Flattery

Recommended by

  • Nick Malakhow: A Form of Flattery

    At its heart, this is a beautifully rendered family drama, but the elements of intrigue and the larger meditations on the ownership and value of art add layers of nuance! Portia's impulsive decision as a teenager has fascinating ripple effects, and the way the ramifications do or don't play out is unexpected but satisfying. There is such poignancy to the ending in that what seems like an ultimate "win" for Evelyn and a skirting of the worst possible outcome is its own ultimate tragedy. The exploration of art, what its worth, and authorship of creativity was fascinating too!

    At its heart, this is a beautifully rendered family drama, but the elements of intrigue and the larger meditations on the ownership and value of art add layers of nuance! Portia's impulsive decision as a teenager has fascinating ripple effects, and the way the ramifications do or don't play out is unexpected but satisfying. There is such poignancy to the ending in that what seems like an ultimate "win" for Evelyn and a skirting of the worst possible outcome is its own ultimate tragedy. The exploration of art, what its worth, and authorship of creativity was fascinating too!

Development History

  • Type Workshop, Organization Brigham Young University, Year 2021

Awards