1986: My Happy Life in Provence

Chapter 303 The Central Stage

The Provençal artists treated Rodrigo with 'flattery'; what they cared about was the money in his pocket.

But these professionals held Mr. Normand in high esteem.

Most artists are only proficient in one or two art fields, but Mr. Normand is an 'omniscient' figure in the art world, and he has considerable influence in every art form.

Soon, artists and tourists from all over the world who were initially unsure about the dessert also joined in the applause, expressing their approval of the work through their actions.

This is indeed a great work, without a doubt.

As if he had been praised, Rodrigo waved his hand to the surroundings, signaling that everyone could stop:

"I will have the air conditioning system turned off immediately. If there is a chance, I hope everyone can witness the full beauty of 'nature' with me."

"Definitely, I'll come to see it every day!"

"Luckily I brought my camera today, so I can take pictures of what it looks like today and compare it with the next few days."

"This idea is absolutely fantastic and so interesting! I've never seen an artwork that's different every day."

Rodrigo and his guests could not stay there forever. They bid a reluctant farewell to the work and its author, Ronan, and expressed their hope to meet again someday in the future.

As he passed Ronan, Rodrigo winked at him discreetly and said in a lighthearted tone:

"You'll see everyone again soon. Trust me, I'll come to Lourmaran to see you after I finish this event."

“I look forward to it, Mr. Rodrigo,” Ronan replied with a smile.

Everyone else left, but Normand, the curator of the Grané Museum, remained where he was and did not go to see the next piece.

He walked up to Ronan and asked admiringly:
"What other activities did you participate in?"

Ronan made a deep impression on Normand, who guessed that such an excellent artist would not only participate in this one event.

At this Gold event, the more outstanding the artist, the more active they are. Tiffany and Hugh, among others, each have a dozen or twenty works on display during this event period.

Normand wanted to see Ronan's other works to see if they were as creative.

Ronan shook his head apologetically:
"I'm sorry, sir, I only participated in this one event this time."

Mr. Normand was taken aback, his tone filled with surprise:

"You only attended Rodrigo's exhibition?"

Ronan said, somewhat embarrassed:
"I spent the first half of the month battling the cold and missed the submission deadlines for other exhibitions. By the time I finally had time, there weren't many options left."

Normand nodded in sudden realization, recalling the complex identities Ronan had mentioned when introducing himself:
"I should be the one apologizing to you for not taking your special circumstances into account when submitting the exhibition."

Normand, director of Provence's most important museum, is also a member of the organizing committee for this Gold 'Land Art' series of events.

Information such as the theme, scale, and timing of each exhibition must be approved by the organizing committee.

Mr. Normand then said in a tone of appreciation for talent:

"However, if there is an event you really want to participate in, I can put in a good word for you, and maybe they will make an exception and take another look at your work, but I can't guarantee that it will be possible."

Ronan's eyes lit up.

Can this be done?
However, he was unfamiliar with this series of events, and even though Mr. Normand gave him a chance, he didn't know how to choose.

Ronan immediately looked for help from Zoe and Cotillard behind him.

Long before Ronan turned around, Cotillard and Zoe had already been discussing it in hushed tones, and in just a few seconds, they reached a consensus.

Cotillard stepped forward and said calmly, "Hello Mr. Normand, I am Ronan's agent, Cotillard. Actually, our first choice this time was the Gold Center sculpture exhibition. I wonder if there is still a chance to participate?"

Cotillard's role as Ronan's 'agent' elevated Ronan's artistic level to a new level.

In Provence, only famous artists or very talented young artists have agents to assist them.

Mr. Normand looked at Cotillard, frowned, and said:
"Are you sure you want Ronan to participate in the Central Sculpture Exhibition?"

That was an event specifically for sculptors, and it was the exhibition showcasing the highest level of sculptural skill in this Gordi series.

But the work 'Hope' doesn't really showcase Ronan's sculpting skills.

Codia said firmly:
"That's right, sir. It's the central sculpture exhibition. To be honest, Ronan's true strength lies in his exquisite modeling and sculpting skills, which are in no way inferior to his narrative ability. I hope you can give him a chance to show another side of himself."

'Hope' is a typical narrative work.

Its value lies in what nature is and what the relationship between humans and nature is like; it wins by focusing on the 'theme'.

However, many works in the art world are passed down and become famous because of their exquisite appearance and superb craftsmanship.

Cotillard and Zoe were in complete agreement—Ronan had the ability to be featured on the most prestigious sculpture exhibition platforms.

However, if he were to deliver it himself, he might be refused because the recipient could not be found. But if Mr. Normand were to relay the message for him, the chances of this happening would be greatly increased!

Don't forget that in the Provençal art world, reputation and fame are the most important things.

The museum curator's recommendation perfectly fills the gap in Ronan's knowledge!
Normand adjusted his glasses and expressed his opinion:

“I understand, but if I may be frank, the requirements for the Central Sculpture Exhibition are very high. You should know that all events named after ‘Center’ are officially organized. If Ronan didn’t have achievements in this area before, the organizers might not agree to give him a chance. Even if I go, I can’t change that reality.”

Gold has had many events, both big and small, over the past two months, but most of them have been secondary. Only a few officially organized art events can truly rival Andy Goldsworth or give the Provençal art world recognition.

For example, the sculpture exhibition, painting exhibition, and art exhibition at the Gold Centre are the main stages that bring together the highest level of art in Provence.

Of the artists from Lourmaran, only Zoe and Batty passed the selection process for the 'Center' event and their works were successfully shortlisted.

Monsieur Normandy was undoubtedly a talent enthusiast and clearly protective of Ronan. Cotillard also knew that this was very important to Ronan, so he exchanged glances with him, wanting to hear his opinion.

Should we strive to get on the main stage, or settle for a safer opportunity to showcase our talents?

Ronan did not answer directly, but instead looked over the crowd at 'hope'.

Surrounded by tourists taking photos and admiring the work, it was undoubtedly the focal point of the central exhibition area.

He hesitated for a few seconds, then looked at Mr. Normand:

“Sir, I still want to go to the very ‘center’ stage, and I have a feeling they will give me special treatment.”

Mr. Normand didn't try to persuade him further. He had been young once too and understood the mindset of young people, especially young artists, so he quickly agreed.
"Okay, I'll go ask."

Mr. Normand then left Cotillard's contact information and told her that if the center's sculpture exhibition agreed to see Ronan's work, he would call her immediately to let her know the good news.

Before leaving, he earnestly gave Ronan some advice:
"I must remind you that art encompasses all aspects of the world, and not every event will revolve around the theme of 'nature.' You should consider the 'preservation' of ingredients in your future creations."

Ronan nodded gratefully:
“I understand, Mr. Normand. Please rest assured that even if it is still the theme of ‘nature,’ I will only use the ‘whole view of nature’ approach once. Art should not be confined to a single framework.”

Mr. Normand smiled even more approvingly and patted Ronan on the shoulder:

"I will try my best to get you another opportunity to showcase your talents."

(End of this chapter)