They wrote in English, very polite, saying they want a "collection" of Mithila work for a show in November. Twelve pieces. Six weeks.

When I said yes, my son was happy. He said this is the exposure, this is how it works now.

But ji, they are wanting the paintings quickly and they are also wanting the old designs. You cannot have both. The kohbar ghar I make takes me nearly three weeks alone, because the fine line is not something you can hurry. My mother used to say the brush should move at the speed of the breath, otherwise the line becomes a scratch. The fish must be drawn with patience or it will look like a fish from a shop.

Also the payment. They are giving forty percent now, rest after the show, and if nothing sells then nothing more. Paper and natural colour cost I am bearing myself. So I am doing the work of six weeks for money that may or may not come.

I have already told them yes. Now I am thinking whether to write back and say only eight pieces, and that the kohbar will be one of them and it will take its own time.

Anyone here has dealt with galleries like this? Or should I just do the eight and let them be angry.