Chapter 50 (1) - The Mysterious Art Museum
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The next day, in the morning.
Sitting in the caf, Youngju, resting his chin on his hands, raises his eyebrows and asks,
"Artist Company? Isn't that the company name created by Klimt?"
"Yeah."
"Hmm, as far as I know, an entertainment agency already took that name."
"I've already consulted about that. It's a name left in history, so nobody can copyright it. We can use the same name for our company without any issues."
"Well, it's simple and clearly indicates what the company does, so it seems fine."
Morning at the caf.
I told Youngju that we would name our company Artist Company. Youngju, having accumulated vast knowledge working in an art museum, understood my intention and agreed.
Youngju writes the name in the company establishment application form given by the W Tree representative, and nods.
"Good, we don't have the luxury to ponder more. Let's go with this."
Youngju quickly flips through a few documents, has me sign in several places, and fills in the blanks. It's really handy to have a friend who's experienced in social life.
After completing the documents and placing them in an envelope, Youngju says,
"You know I'm only going to the office till the end of this week, right? Have you found the office?"
"Not yet."
"Get something like an atelier concept, don't just pick a regular office with bright fluorescent lights."
"Does it need to be big? It's just the two of us."
"You fool, we need to get isometric projections and turn them into 3D for the fresco. How can you do that in a small space? Besides, we might get other kinds of work in the future. Do you think you can work on a 200-size canvas in a tiny office?"
"Got it."
A spacious office is expensive.
From what I've seen, even the rent in Seoul would cost over 3 million won, not to mention the security deposit.
I ask Youngju, watching her reaction,
"Would it be okay to get one in Gyeonggi Province?"
Youngju lives in Yeomchang-dong. She's used to moving only within Seoul, so I felt somewhat sorry to suggest setting up an office in Gyeonggi Province.
Youngju glances at me and then nods.
"Paju or Ilsan, Bupyeong would be nice. Don't get it in Namyangju, it's a nice place but too far from our home."
Phew, glad she understands. Actually, Paju or Ilsan isn't that far from Yeomchang-dong.
"Okay."
"Now, let's talk about work. I've been thinking about what to paint for the fresco."
Youngju pulls out a large folder from her bag and spreads it open.
The first few pages are printed with references to famous European theater frescoes.
She really did prepare diligently, saying she's staking her life on this.
As Youngju flips through the references, she says,
"Perhaps it's better to imbue the grand theater fresco with religious meaning. The frescoes in major European theaters are also full of biblical allusions."
"........................"
"How about Venus, the symbol of beauty, as a theme? Ah, what about touching on the Creation? Hmm, would that be too much like copying Michelangelo? Ah, it's a tough decision."
"........................"
"The theater's interior follows Baroque style, so incorporating a scene from Greek or Roman mythology would be cool, right?"
Youngju, babbling non-stop.
She looks cute doing that, but I also feel sorry.
Because I've already decided on what fresco to paint.
"Hey, Youngju."
"And then, considering the heart of Baroque was 17th-century France, we could use the Reformation and the Thirty Years' War."
"Young-ju?"
"In my opinion, an image of the absolute monarchy of Louis XIV would... Oh, what did you say?"
"."
I glance at my watch and then stand up from my seat.
"Let's go somewhere for a bit."
"Where?"
I wink at Young-ju and say, "Market research."
Young-ju looks at me with a dumbfounded expression.
"What are you talking about, you crazy guy."
Haha, let's get going.
A little later, at W Tree Hannam.
Facing the splendid hotel, Youngju said,
Well, yeah. I need to see the theater to proceed with my work. Our boss, surprisingly meticulous, isn't he? Adorably so.
Thinking about it, Youngju hasn't seen the theater yet.
It wasn't my intention to bring her for that.
I felt a bit sorry, but she seemed to take it well, so let's move on.
I entered the hotel lobby, sparing my words, and Youngju pointed towards the theater direction from behind, saying,
Isnt the theater that way?
First, let's start here.
Oh, right. Its not opened yet, so we need permission, huh? Wow, boss. Visiting once, and youre overflowing with ease?
The misunderstanding is growing.
It doesnt matter. Ill finish my business, ask for permission, and then take a look at the theater to turn this misunderstanding into reality.
The lobby staff, seeing me, stood up from their seat.
Recognizing my face, the staff member asked,
Hello, Artist.
Huh? Perhaps because it's a five-star hotel, they remember my face from just one visit.
Hello.
After checking the PC, the staff member said,
There seems to have been a mistake in the system. There is no appointment recorded for today, did you perhaps have an appointment with the boss?
No, sorry. I didnt have an appointment.
Oh, then did you come to look around the theater?
No, not that. I heard theres a board meeting today.
The staff looked momentarily flustered. It must be unexpected for a painter assigned to the theater ceiling mural to inquire about a board meeting.
Is the boss here now?
Well, yes, but.
Could you contact her? Id like to meet.
It's usually an impossible request. But remembering the artist that Yoo Min Young, the president, had especially asked to take care of, the staff agreed and went back to make a call.
Youngju, poking me in the ribs, frowned,
Hey, you should have made an appointment. Is the hotel president your neighborhood friend? You seem meticulous but are clueless about this.
..
That's because of the reference you prepared earlier.
I hurried over to compensate for the four hours you wasted deliberating over the predetermined theme. I know that much. It was a real mistake.
Fortunately, the staff, appearing slightly happier after getting permission from Yoo Min Young, came to the front desk.
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