“Oh yes. I’m intimately familiar with the CAC. They have been the recipients of the Peabody Arts Foundation grants for years but if you were the Director surely our paths would have crossed before now.”

“I was never the Director. I was offered the job but I didn’t take it. I suppose it was another twist of fate that took my career path in a different direction.”

“What happened?”

“Ivan Claybourne happened. He was a friend of my mother’s. I’ve known him for years. He was my mentor and a trusted advisor. I called him when I got the CAC offer for his recommendation before I accepted.”

Bette recalled her conversation with Ivan three years prior. “I’ve been offered the position of Director of the California Arts Center (CAC).”

“Is that really the path you want to take Bette?”

“It’s a high profile job Ivan and it pays well. Besides I think it will pave the way for my career in the arts. They have a good reputation even though they aren’t very progressive but I hope to change all that.”

“Bette they like to play it safe and as much as you might think that you can stir things up you’ll ultimately answer to Franklin and the board of directors. You won’t have the autonomy to be as expressive with the art exhibits as you might like. I know how passionate you are. I would hate for the demands of the job to put a damper on your creativity. ”

“I do realize that Ivan but it’ll just be for a few years until I can open my own art gallery. You know that is what I’ve always dreamed of.”

“I know honey and that’s why I don’t think it’s a good move to get bogged down in a job where more often than not bureaucracy wins over creative expression. “

“Ivan you of all people know how difficult it is to get started in this business. I need to make a name for myself and make some connections before I can even think of going out on my own.”

“Why don’t you come and work with me? I have a good business and an established clientele. I’m getting on in age and could use the help. I can’t put in the long hours and the extensive traveling that is required to keep it going. I could really use a gallery manager and art consultant. I can’t think of anyone that I’d trust more than you to take care of the business for me Bette. I’ll even make you a deal. If you can successfully build your own clientele and bring in new artists I would offer you a 50/50 partnership after the first year and first option to buy upon my retirement.”