[US] Possible muse scam? Is there a way I can safely interact or should I run away completely?

A college acquaintance with 100 mutual connections offered $500 to use a selfie in an art piece, claiming it would be sold for $2000. The user is cautious about accepting payment via Zelle and suspects a scam, later confirmed by others. The artist sent samples of their work but the user ultimately distrusts the arrangement.