They say play your cards right. Enter a room with your head up high, and never let them know what you’re up to.
It started great because of the expected question and answer portion.
Mobile Company CEO/Building Owner: So, what are you? What do you do?
Me: I look at spaces and turn them into creative spaces.
I knew it would leave them speechless or confused. I was ushered to the floor where they wanted me to check. “This is an ocular visit,” I remind myself.
I roamed around. I know nothing about measurements or technical stuff about engineering or architecture. I only know how to visualize what an empty space could be. And there I was, sweaty. Even my upper lip was sweaty. Urgh this heat. But the space—gawd the space! It’s like a blank canvas waiting to be painted. I saw a lot of opportunities.
I saw a potential office for admin (curator, manager, whatever); I saw where the food will be served during openings; I saw varied sizes of paintings hanging on walls and panels; I saw an area where artists could play and speakers could share their piece; I saw where workshops could be held on a monthly basis. I saw where spotlights should be placed, and walls that could be replaced. The ceiling could do some renovation, and the room needs some serious airconditioning. I walked around as I imagined it all, what a life it could be if I chose this path instead. I walked slowly, turned around, breathed, and let it all sink in. I know which artists would love such a space. I know what event should go first as an opening, and then which exhibits will come after. I know what line up I could gather and whom I can mix in from time to time. I know what kind of interviews will happen here and there. I can imagine it all.
And then everything crumbled just because of a conversation that transpired after my daydreaming moments.
I am usually nonchalant to almost anything and everything, especially when it comes to green jokes or men talking about you know what. But this felt different, and I felt violated—my soul felt violated. I raised a brow and left silently.
I will never work with someone who can joke about something and make it sound so serious. I would like to apologize in advance, if I’ll be passive and negative about this deal.
All I can say is, let’s focus on the good part: go back to the conversation above. 🙃
