Previously…

A few contingency plans enacted but overall, a success thus far.  Rigor, scrupulous planning and careful execution had its merits. 

Proficiencies that resulted in the proposition that may potentially resettle me from LA to New York. 

—

I’d received a call from Emma Donlon, a family friend originating from a close relationship between our fathers.  Though distance was a barrier, we had kept in touch over the years consulting each other on artists and concepts.  Professional respect for each other was unmistakable.

We had both attended Yale although I was three years her junior.  Her family, unquestionably affluent beyond imagination, had extensive interests in the art world.  Thankfully, she remained unassuming. 

Their Connecticut homes…or more accurately, mansions in Greenwich and Darien where private waterfront clubs were commonplace testament to their wealth.  Not to mention a couple of apartments in Manhattan along with an exclusive gallery in SoHo hosting multiple new and established artists’ shows supplemented with an extensive permanent collection.  Two smaller galleries along Madison Avenue uptown added to their holdings.

The aforementioned larger one had considerable square footage in New York standards or any other for that matter.  Her proposal was baited with an expansion to a similarly sized location.  The assignment would undoubtedly be challenging, befitting my nature.

In ways beyond what the CAC had ever experienced, the competition was expected to be fierce.  After all, it was situated in the art center comparable to no other.  The undertaking, were I to accept charge would be aided by their family assets, an established reputation, existing relationships with artists and agreements with other galleries. 

These would serve as the springboard for future success. Advantages realized only if wielded with deft precision and astuteness.

They were expanding, she explained and needed someone with my background to lead the venture.  I clarified my contract wasn’t to expire soon, terms dictating a little over a year remaining.  Then I’d mentioned my intent to potentially take a sabbatical of sorts, a personal one.

Both were addressed succinctly.  Consistent with my practiced strategic manner, she was planning early. They wouldn’t need me until the opening.  Although input was welcome, my role wouldn’t be to set up but to sustain and cultivate.  After all, the business plan had already written itself duplicated from the success of the existing enterprises.  As for time away, acceptable and negotiable.