Gabriel walked down the alleyways of Cadaques, feeling a bit lost, with all the alleys dotted with the same white washed houses. Earlier, he took out the brochure he had and pinpointed in the map where the gallery was. He parked where his GPS application says there’s parking. He ended up to be at the other side but he didn’t mind because it gave him time to think.
He was arriving at the entrance of the gallery when he heard her voice. He heard a couple other voices and they seem to be having an animated discussion. He leaned his body against the wall beside the door and listened.
…that’s the photo where it all started. Ida was saying, for what feels like the 500th time since she opened the exhibit. But you can tell in her voice that she’s happy to tell the story over and over again. A kind man, gave it to me, about 10 years ago. And it always had a special significance for me. Two years ago, for my graduate photography project, I dove down in the seas of the Philippines, where I was born, and took photos. I depicted them in black and white because down there I’d like to imagine I’m in outer space with the stars and heavenly bodies. I wanted to show that connection.
I really love the analogy between the dark sky and the deep sea. But it’s not only what I see visually, I feel a lot of emotions when I look at them. Dark yet hopeful. One of the women from the group said.
Maybe because I was depressed and anxious at that time. I wanted to escape reality, go somewhere else. And I found that solace underwater.
The girl nodded. Are you alright now?
Yes, much better. Ida said. Thank you for asking.
It’s ironic because you chose photography but that required you to physically interact with reality, which you wanted to escape. The woman continued to say.
I didn’t think of it that way. You’re right. Ida answered, thoughtfully.
Gabriel took a peek at the door. He was able to glance at her. Ida thought she saw something moved near the door. Gabriel quickly stepped back.
After a few more moments, he heard the conversation finishing and the small group of women went out. Taking a big breath, he gathered the courage to go in. As he entered, so did a couple of French people.
A bunch of bonjours were exchanged at the same time. Ida, shocked to see Gabriel, hid her expression well.
Welcome. I’m the artist. If you have any questions. I’m here. She said in passable French. The couple acknowledged her and started to explore the exhibit. Gabriel stayed there, by her side.
Salut. He said.
Hi…
You’re here.
Oui…and so are you. She said.
They looked at each other without speaking. The couple started to look at them curiously.
You still look the same. Gabriel finally said. Charming as ever. You haven’t aged one bit.
That’s nice of you to say. She said. But I have strong Asian genes, so it’s a bit like cheating. You’re not bad yourself, you still have the same proportion of white to black hair. Roughly. She quipped, gesturing her hand left and right.
That’s really the first thing you noticed? He grinned touching his hair.
Yeah, even the first time I met you. She said, smiling. Some more silence.
So you’re an artist now. Wow, I didn’t expect that. He said, now looking directly at her eyes. He missed those eyes.
Me neither. But here I am. She said, shrugging her shoulders.
Excusez-moi. The couple approached Ida and Gabriel then. They looked at her and then at him sensing the tension in the air. They asked if they were interrupting something. Gabriel said no and backed away.
I’ll just go around to see the exhibit. He said to Ida and he politely nodded to the couple.
As he walked away, he heard them talking in French. Your exhibit is wonderful! The woman started to say. We love the photos, especially the diptychs, pointing to the center of the right wall and that one, pointing to the other one on the other wall. How much are they?
Ah no, unfortunately they’re the only ones in the exhibit that’s not for sale. Those are originals and they’re not completely mine. The jellyfish photos, they’re mine so that’s OK. But the comet ones, I don’t have the right to sell them. It’s just for display.
Oh, that’s too bad. Can you ask the other photographer, if he would like to sell it…we’re really interested. The woman asked.
I could try… She answered while glancing at Gabriel who’s now on the other side of the room. He mouthed something and gestured with his left thumb up. The gallery being compact, allowed him to hear everything.
Ida saw him signing but chose to ignore it. Let me get your contact details and let you know. She answered to the couple. Her mind was made up, but she did not want to be rude. The woman wrote down her email address on a paper and they left. Ida bade them goodbye.
And now speaking French too, he said as he clapped his hands, walking towards Ida.
She laughed. Don’t be fooled. I only know the basics. It was not so difficult coming from Spanish. I practically have the same things memorized, a list of answers to every possible question.
And your Spanish? Gabriel offered.
Muy bien! I can speak well now but I still prefer to communicate in English.
They looked at the room again in silence. They were still walking the tropes of awkwardness brought upon by their surprise reunion.
People are very interested in your work, and I can see why. It’s amazing. Bravo! Gabriel said cheerily.
Thanks though that doesn’t really translate to sales. But I am happy that it inspires others. I’ve had many wonderful conversations with different kinds people during the past two weeks. They gave me a lot of insights about my work I haven’t even thought before. That alone made me very happy.
I heard some of that earlier. I have many questions to the artist myself. He said, smiling.
Sure, shoot away. She grinned.
First, why did you not say yes to that couple? They wanted to buy your work no? I was telling you it’s OK earlier. If you’re concerned about dad’s photo, I’m giving you permission. Anyway, dad gave that to you. He’d be very happy to see his photos lived on, in a surprising way!
I just don’t think it’s right. I feel a bit guilty even to display his photos without his actual permission or yours. I’ve tried to contact you…I mean, but after 10 years…
Oh you did? Yeah about that. He touched the back of his head with his left hand. That’s why I’m here. He said. Anyway, you have his permission. I’ll sign official papers if you need that. Do whatever you want with it. Sell the original, reproduce it. Really. I’m happy to support your work. And dad would say the same.
OK, thank you, I’ll think about it. She said.
The diptych really works. The comet and the jellyfish facing each other, you’d think they’re both in outer space. It makes you think twice.
They’re my favorites of the project. That’s why I chose them as my promotion photos.
Oh, not because you wanted to catch my attention? He jested, starting to feel comfortable with her again.
Yeah, yeah, that’s exactly why. She said grinning. But seriously, how did you manage to find me?
Ah, right, that’s quite an interesting story. Gabriel replied. So I was at the Perpignan Station when…
Ida? A man in his late 50’s came down from the stairs. When he saw Gabriel he apologized for interrupting. He had an American accent.
I just want to ask if these are your boyfriend’s? He held up a pair of socks. I found it at the laundry machine.
Yeah, I think it’s his. She quickly took it from him and placed it in her pocket but her pocket was not big enough so she put it in the plastic box where she hides her prints. Thanks Ed.
Are you closing up soon? Ed asked.
Yes, I was thinking to go now. With my friend. She glanced at Gabriel.
OK, don’t worry I’ll lock the doors when I head out later. I won’t be back until tomorrow morning though so don’t worry if you don’t hear me coming back tonight. He said goodbye and went back upstairs.
So that’s Ed, the owner of this gallery house. She said to Gabriel. He lives upstairs and during the annual festival, he hosts exhibits in this gallery and provides a place to stay for the artists. He’s very kind.
That’s great, it’s a really good space. A little small but that’s makes it quite welcoming.
It’s perfect for my work. She said. So back to your story… how did you find me again? I had no idea the organizers left brochures in Perpignan station, in Figueres for sure…
Actually, someone gave it to me…this old man –
Sorry, don’t mean to interrupt but do you want to grab drinks or something? She said distractedly as she put the books on display on the table away. I’d love to hear that story sitting down.
He looked hesitant and glanced at his watch.
Or do you have something else? She asked then paused. Oh, you’re here with someone?
No no. I just have a train to catch. But wouldn’t your boyfriend mind?
Ah, he’s not here right now. And I’m not…I mean…We’re not…It’s OK, don’t worry. You’re my long lost friend. And you just gave me permission for the prints. I have to take you out. Make you sign stuff…you know.
Gabriel laughed. OK, so it’s a business meeting.
Yeah, something like that. She answered. I know the perfect place, 10 minutes away. They have the best tapas in Cadaques. Let’s go. I’m starving. She quickly took her bag, and Gabriel went out with her.
They had a view of the bay of Cadaques in front of them as they took a right turn. People have started to gather by the promenade – parents with children eating ice cream, lovers holding hands while walking, and old men looking out to the sea.
I just love the smell of this breeze. Don’t you? She opened her arms wide and closed her eyes.
He smiled looking at her. He felt someone behind his back and turned around. Ed caught up with them.
Oh Ida. Ed said. Tell your dad, I emailed him the ad, if he’s interested or he knows someone.
Sure, I’ll tell him. have a great time Ed!
You too! He said waving and walking past them. They saw him turn a right turn.
Did I get it right, that he’s selling the place? Gabriel asked.
Yeah, he’s moving back to the US. My dad was here last weekend to see the exhibit and he loved it here.
He must really be drawn to this place enough to consider it. Gabriel said.
He loves the sea, if you remember, he’s a ship navigator. Though, I think it’s the lighthouses that really charmed him. My dad told me he can imagine himself living here.
He shares the love of the sea with you. Gabriel said.
Yeah, actually when I went to dive in the Philippines, he came back with me. It’s his first time to be back after almost 37 years. We went around different islands in the Philippines. He loved it.
That must be a very special time. Gabriel said.
It was. Anyway, I think that reminded him how much he loves the sea. I’m not taking it seriously though because I don’t think he can convince my step mom to move out here. But in case, it would be a dream to visit him here. It feels like home, to be by the sea.
I’ll cross my fingers for you. Gabriel commented.
Speaking of home, tell me about the Night Sky, she said. You have no idea how much I’ve missed that place.
Um about that…