Previously…

This interlude to completing necessary paperwork, the budget reconciliation and forecast for an upcoming board meeting would at least be productive.  Allowing yet another opportunity for me to reconfirm what I’d already checked on multiple times earlier. 

It doesn’t hurt to be absolutely sure. 

Besides, I loved this feeling.  Having occasion to roam the halls unfettered with any disruptions from employees, colleagues and visitors.  It reminded me of when I had my own gallery.

Slowing my pace briefly as I passed one of the rooms, I took time to admire one sculptures of particular interest to me in the entire collection.  Named ‘Transition’ by the artist. 

It wouldn’t be classified traditional by the casual observer.  Perhaps because of the baleful coloring, harsh lines and form – it could be accused of lacking aesthetic qualities.  Repulsive even.  Indeed, challenging to the untrained eye. 

However for me this piece was consistent with the philosopher Kant’s position.  That response to beauty exists in the structure of one’s mind.  Paradoxically, art can offer ugliness and beauty in one object.  A fine portrayal of what is unsightly could be stunningly striking.

—-

“I’m sorry to bring this up here but with my trip being cut short there’s no time other than right now.  I wanted to do this face-to-face.”

“Come to the East Coast.”  Emma pursued, “Think of it…as a mini vacation spent in the wonderment of the concrete jungle that lays claim to my heart.  All expenses paid at that!”

“The timing may be right for us both Bette. You know we could really use your expertise.  Perhaps you could use the change of pace and scenery.” 

Her proposal spoken she then asked evenly, “Unless there’s…still something keeping you here such that constant visits wouldn’t be shall we say, be enough to sustain?”

Feigning distraction with a sudden burst of laughter behind me, I turned to scan the room in that direction.  Immediately, my gaze was drawn to Tina standing next to the room’s centerpiece.

Admittedly my favorite though the preference was kept undisclosed.  How ironic if not apropos – the artist’s reference to it that is – given the current topic of engagement.  The angle from where I stood provided a line of sight free from obstruction.  I studied the piece as I’d done many times during the weeks of preparation.