The Villa of Dreams Read online

  ‘Please do not mention the L word.’ She sighs. ‘And the job is going well?’

  I feel an immense sense of satisfaction wash over me as I realise that this is the happiest I’ve felt in a very long time. Admittedly, I do have moments when loneliness creeps up on me without warning, but I think it’s more akin to homesickness. The one thing I do know for sure, is that I have no yearning to go back to my old life and no regrets. ‘In June it’s the fifth anniversary of the opening of the gallery. My proposals to mark the occasion are being considered by the directors and I’m waiting for their decision. I am nervous about it. It’s a huge deal and I could be way off the mark. I wanted to impress them and I know I can pull it off, but I wonder if they’ll think my plans are too ambitious.’

  Judi stares straight into my eyes, giving me her no-nonsense look. ‘I’m sure you’ve got it right. As much as I hate the fact that you’re so far away, you’re not stifled any more, and I’m honestly thrilled for you. And has being around all that arty stuff inspired you?’

  ‘Maria’s seventeen-year-old grandson, Luis, helped me to set up a little workshop in the garden.’ I can’t help breaking out into a huge smile.

  ‘I knew that artistic streak of yours was still alive and kicking! Well, done, Seren. Freedom can be exhilarating when there is nothing, and no one, to hold you back.’

  My father didn’t want me wasting time on things that didn’t further my career, but that need to create is a part of me. A part I’ve given too little attention for far too long.

  ‘Well, freedom also comes at a price and if I mess up at work the rent won’t get paid and my savings will begin to dwindle. Renting out my house in the UK keeps the mortgage ticking over and covers the cost of the management company, but that’s only a temporary solution.’

  ‘There really is no turning back for you, now?’

  ‘No. Anyway, keep everything crossed for me that my ideas are well received and that I can prove my worth.’

  ‘They’re crossed,’ she says, holding up a hand in front of the screen. ‘But you won’t need it as this job was made for you.’

  ‘And in return I’ll be sending calming thoughts your way. If this Alex guy unsettles you, just conjure up a mental image of him doing something ordinary. Like washing his hair in the shower. I’d say sitting on the toilet, but that’s an invasion of a person’s privacy. Even if it is just a mental image.’

  She bursts out laughing. ‘Oh, my focus wouldn’t be on the bubbles in his hair, or the fact that he’s just like everyone else. He is simply gorgeous, intelligent, super-organised and… fascinating. Alex has this wonderfully intimate little smile. It gives me goosebumps.’

  Goosebumps? What has gotten into her?

  ‘And you’re getting this from faraway glimpses of each other?’

  ‘Oh no, is that the time already? I’d better go or I’ll be late for work.’ Her words come tumbling out and I wonder whether she’s purposely cutting me off. ‘Thanks for listening and for the advice. Good luck and a virtual hug, Seren! Speak soon.’

  Ping, she’s gone. I’m left shaking my head sadly. I can tell she still hasn’t made up her mind what to do about the promotion and I can only hope I said enough to tip her in the right direction.

  That’s one of the disadvantages of being so far away. It’s too easy to avoid talking about the real issues and I don’t want to worry Judi, either. I am lonely at times and feeling a little isolated. A small fish in a huge pond and I’m anxious to make my mark. The big fear is that my father is right, and I think I’m more capable than I am. Was it his influence and money that backed up whatever skills and talent I have?

  I groan. Why do you keep doing this to yourself, Seren? I ask myself. You are your own person, treading your own path. Own it, girl, and show the world what you’re made of.

  I think it’s time to fire up the welding torch and work the metal. I can fit in an hour before I jump in the shower. The only monster in my world is the one I’m creating for myself. He’s shaping up to be a gloriously majestic marsh sandpiper of epic proportions, because I don’t do twee. I snapped him when I was walking along the banks of the Tagus estuary, and he’s going to be the first sculpture in my new collection.

  2

  Go Big, or Go Home

  Walking into A Galeria das Almas – The Gallery of Souls – a thrill courses through my body, as it does every single time I step through the enormous glass doors. Everything is all about profit these days, but here the board of directors have a wider remit. Representing more than a dozen, wealthy investors, their aim is all-encompassing. From developing local talent, to liaising with artists from other countries – the focus is on thinking outside the box to surprise and delight locals and tourists. Yes, their individual businesses mean they have a vested interest in celebrating the cosmopolitan and cultural heritage of the capital of Portugal, but there is also a sense of pride in continuing to raise the bar on what has been achieved since the gallery opened.

  Collaborations with other countries are viewed as a vehicle to grow the reputation of the gallery as a centre for inspiration for future generations. A recent exhibition featuring the art of jewellery making, included Portugal’s much-celebrated and intricate, gold filigree designs. Artisans from several different countries came together to produce a unique and inspiring collection, in a series of live demonstrations. It was so successful that it has been turned into a roadshow and is now touring Europe. It also inspired an idea that I felt sure would make the board really sit up and take notice. Something fun, bold and daring to capture the audience’s attention in a unique way before the exhibition opens.

  I wanted to come up with an idea that would reflect the passion and dynamic vibrancy of Lisbon. The setting for the spectacular event playing out in my head was key and the monument of the Cristo Rei is a powerful icon. What I love about Lisbon I have decided, is that everywhere you look there are signs of the wonderfully rich past. It has survived everything from a devastating earthquake, a dictatorship, a disastrous fire, to a peaceful revolution in 1974 – nothing has dampened that air of optimism. So, a setting that looked out across the river Tagus and Lisbon was simply perfect.

  The gallery doesn’t live in the past, though, it embraces the future as it pays homage to creativity in all of its forms. It’s housed in a sweeping, glass building, built on the tree-lined, waterfront promenade known as Avenida da Ribeira das Naus. Formerly an area that had fallen into decline, after a huge injection of cash it’s now a hub, an area people gravitate towards. It’s popular with joggers, cyclists, families, and tourists, situated an easy stroll away from the ferry terminal, Cais do Sodré. For me, it’s a ten-minute crossing from Cacilhas on the opposite side of the river, so it’s an easy commute each day.

  When people think about an art gallery, first and foremost they expect paintings, but a true reflection of the arts encompasses all forms of expression. Here, we celebrate the skill and imagination of any visual form of creativity. Whether that’s because of its beauty, the emotion it invokes, or the senses it touches. It’s not simply about quiet rooms and walls lined with expensive canvases, but instead we try to acknowledge the vision and determination of those who seek to create. Previously unknown names are exhibited alongside those whose reputations draw crowds.

  The exhibits are diverse. Everything from a beautifully turned piece of wood, a series of sketches capturing the abundant local wildlife, or a study of the colourful azulejo tin-glazed, ceramic tiles seen all over Portugal. Then there are the sculptures in stone, metal and ceramics – for me it’s heaven. What if, one day, one of my sculptures finds its own space in the gallery… I can only dream about that for now, of course.

  And this is the environment I stepped into, determined to build on what my predecessor had begun. Organising large events is second nature to me now, but every day I worked for my father was a battle due to his overbearing, manipulative style. Today, I’m standing tall and my stomach is filled with nervous excitement. For
the first time in my career, I’m about to be judged solely on the proposal I’ve put together and it’s a huge deal for me. But there’s no personal battle of wills going on behind the scenes here. If my proposal is too ambitious, then I simply need to come up with another idea – and I have plenty of those.

  Taking my seat around the table, I give an acknowledging greeting. ‘Senhor Ferreira, Senhora Veloso, Senhor Portela. Thank you for calling this meeting at such short notice. While June seems a long time away, there is a lot of work to be done if you decide to move forward with this proposal.’

  Within the first week of my arrival, I soon gave up trying to impress them with my limited understanding of their language. My pitiful attempts were met with appreciation but also amusement. It was a relief, as they assured me it was not going to be a drawback. I was being employed for my skills as an events manager and I was assigned an interpreter by the name of Antero Medeiros. Whenever he’s around, he pops in for a little chat, but, so far, we haven’t formally worked together as I haven’t needed to call upon his services.

  Exhibitors at the gallery come from all around the world so virtually all the people I’ve dealt with have spoken a reasonable amount of English. Enough for me to conduct our meetings with ease, although it has left me wishing I were a seasoned linguist. Learning the language is a top priority for me this autumn.

  ‘Have we all had a chance to consider Senhorita Maddison’s proposals for our auspicious celebrations?’ Senhor Ferreira takes the lead. His voice is heavily accented, but easy to follow.

  The others nod their heads.

  ‘And?’ He raises an eyebrow. I find myself holding my breath.

  ‘Impressive!’ Senhor Portelo states, staring down at the document in front of him. ‘Textiles are an area we have not yet explored. Maravilhoso!’

  I’m delighted with wonderful. One down, two to go.

  Senhora Veloso is next. ‘It is ambitious with the spectacle of a fashion show but an inspired idea! Well done. It has my vote, too.’

  ‘I am in total agreement,’ Senhor Ferreira confirms.

  I’m shocked when they give a little round of applause to seal their endorsement and I feel my cheeks begin to glow.

  ‘You are setting yourself a tough timetable,’ he continues, ‘but we have no doubt about your ability to deliver. We have willing partners and our investors are looking forward to a most wondrous anniversary celebration. It is pleasing to see Portuguese photographer Rafael Osorio’s name here. Bringing together fashion, art and textiles is a stroke of genius, Seren. And your initial approaches have been received with interest?’

  ‘They have, Senhor Ferreira, all the potential contributors I’ve spoken to hold the gallery in the highest esteem.’

  ‘Excellent.’ His face breaks out into a warm smile. ‘We will leave this in your capable hands then and will look forward to our weekly updates.’

  I walk away from the meeting fighting the urge to punch the air. Selecting the three key figures around which to build this project wasn’t easy, but the vision works on paper, and I can only hope and pray that when it comes to getting everyone to work together, there are no stumbling blocks. I have succeeded in gaining the confidence of my bosses, and now all I need to do is make it happen.

  Heading back to my office, Antero approaches and the moment he spots me, his eyes instantly light up. Tall, dark and with a wicked smile, he offers his hand and we shake.

  ‘Good to see you, Seren. When are you going to enlist my help?’ he enquires in an admonishing tone.

  He’s always on call if needed, but as a self-employed contractor he’s only around whenever his services are required. Usually, when a new display is being erected and Antero is instrumental in designing the multilingual signage.

  ‘Soon. The chaos is about to begin.’

  ‘Ah, chaos I understand. I look forward to it.’

  I’m not sure he does understand. I have a feeling Antero is going to more than earn his fee once we get started.

  ‘If you can spare me ten minutes right now…’ I grind to a halt, waving to Carolina to attract her attention. ‘Are you free?’ I call out, as she strides towards us.

  ‘Yes. It was approved?’ she enquires, eagerly.

  Both sets of eyes are now firmly on my face as I break out into a modest smile.

  ‘It was and it’s unanimous. Let’s head to my office and I will give you both a copy of the proposal and a quick overview.’

  There’s the buzz of excitement between us and a little thrill courses through me as we come together as a team for the first time. On entering the office, I hand each of them a bound copy of the report, and while they settle themselves down, I walk around to the head of the desk.

  ‘I can’t believe what I am seeing,’ Antero declares as he stares down at the document in his hands.

  ‘Is this a fashion show at the Santuário Nacional do Cristo Rei?’

  ‘Yes, but that’s only one element of the celebrations. Good communication and a massive publishing campaign are going to be key in pulling this off.’

  Carolina is leafing through the pages and I can see that her reaction mirrors that of the directors when they first received their copies. Surprise, no doubt, swiftly followed by the thought that if we do this well it could be spectacular.

  ‘It’s ambitious, I will admit. But I’ve been in touch with English artist Reid Henderson’s personal assistant and he is keen to be involved in the project. You may not be aware that he is based in Lisbon, as well as having a home in London. His collection of paintings celebrating the birds, flora and fauna of the banks of the river Tagus was exhibited in an art gallery in London last summer. It created a lot of interest and resulted in the publication of a limited-edition hardback book, which raised a lot of money for Portugal’s marine conservation efforts.’

  I pause for a couple of moments, as they are now eagerly leafing through the graphics. A talented ex-colleague in the UK did an amazing job of taking the briefing and photos I sent him and turning them into a visual representation of my vision.

  ‘Bernadette Brodeur, a French textiles designer, has confirmed she would be delighted to take part and is available to fly over for the day of the shoot. And fashion photographer Rafael Osorio is prepared to adjust his schedule to accommodate our time frame as soon as I confirm the board’s decision.’

  Carolina glances up at me, frowning. ‘You do know of his reputation?’

  I nod. ‘Yes, I’ve read a few newspaper articles about him. But to make this work it had to be someone of his calibre so that limited my options. The photographer must be on a par with the artist, to establish a level playing field between the two different disciplines. One is translating the work of the other, but in a different – although equally as high-profile – medium. Liaison regarding the textiles will be much easier, as the intention is for Reid Henderson to have final approval, once Bernadette Brodeur has submitted the samples. For an up-and-coming designer, she’s delighted to be offered the opportunity to work with us on this project and she has the full backing of her company. But from here on in it’s important we make full use of you, Antero. While both Bernadette and Rafael have assistants who reply to my emails in English, we need to be holding regular conference calls to ensure our key players can voice their opinions to avoid any misunderstandings at a later stage.’

  Carolina nods her head in firm agreement. ‘I applaud the fact that you are being diplomatic, I see the need for that. Rumours are that Rafael can be difficult, but this will be a big project for him as well as for the gallery.’

  ‘It is without a doubt the biggest spectacle the gallery will ever have hosted. With the filming of the fashion show kicking off the two-day celebrations in the shadow of the Cristo Rei, we will need that event to draw a huge crowd to cover the costs. But it will also raise the profile of the exhibition itself and, as word spreads, we hope to break all records for visitor numbers throughout the summer. So, the pressure is on, Carolina, to get the advert
ising up and running without delay.’

  Her grin is ear-to-ear. ‘I’m on it, as they say. Or I will be the moment I’m back at my desk!’

  ‘There will be an invitation-only cocktail party at the museum on day two, formally celebrating the fifth anniversary. Our special guests will get a preview of the exhibition of Reid’s paintings and Bernadette’s range of fabrics and soft furnishings based on some of his artwork. Once the video of the photo shoot has been finessed, the film will be projected on a specially made screen some nine metres high and twelve metres wide and will feature alongside the exhibition which will run through until the autumn. Bernadette speaks a little English, but no Portuguese. Reid is, apparently, fluent in Portuguese as his wife was born in Porto,’ I confirm, turning to look at Antero.

  ‘And Rafael, well, he’s a law unto himself,’ he informs me.

  We grin across the desk at each other. ‘Sorry. But this won’t work without him. I’m hoping any temperamental issues will get lost in translation.’

  Carolina bursts out laughing and Antero and I join in.

  ‘You are both looking at me as if I’m a mad Englishwoman.’

  They glance at each other for a moment, before redirecting their gaze back to me.

  ‘It’s crazy, but we can do this,’ Carolina replies.

  I give her an acknowledging smile and then look at Antero.

  ‘As an interpreter I am both discreet and…’ He stops short, casting around for the right word.

  ‘Someone able to calm the flames?’ I throw out there quite casually.

  ‘I like that,’ he replies. ‘Most certainly.’

  We have a mountain to climb, it’s true, but as they head off, I can see that both Carolina and Antero are equally as excited as I am to roll up their sleeves and get started.

  When my phone kicks into life, it makes me jump and, snatching it up, I see it’s a text from Judi.

  I start the new job in two weeks’ time. You’re right. I’m being ridiculous. It’s all about the work and no one is going to rob me of the glory!