Life Pays Me Once in a While

Dancing Elephant Press Prompt week 39 of 52 Paying Life

Imbued from childhood with the conviction that assistance should be rendered wherever possible, I’ve endeavored to uphold this principle throughout my life. The ability to provide aid discretely, shrouded in anonymity, elevates the act to an even higher ideal.

As a portrait artist, I was invited to an art showcase curated in the bustling heart of a shopping mall in Tucson, Arizona. As part of an intimate assembly of artists, I claimed a prime spot at the terminal end of a vibrant concourse.

However, the resident portraitist who typically nestled his easel outside the Sears store was absent. The first day was already melding into late morning, and there I was, perched comfortably on my chair, quietly observing the humdrum of shoppers engaged in lively conversation as they meandered past my display.

A striking woman caught my attention from the opposite end of the concourse. She wasn’t just conventionally beautiful; there was an indefinable aura about her that made her stand out. She navigated through the crowd with a direct gaze fastened on me, making a beeline for my display.

My eyes followed her every step, mesmerized by her commanding presence. She approached without hesitation, standing mere inches away, her eyes shimmering with curiosity.

“Are you the artist?” she asked, her voice echoing softly in the bustling mall. I confirmed her query with a nod and a simple “Yes.”

A smile curled at the corners of her mouth as she replied, “I’ve been searching for you all morning.”

We settled into a conversation, and without any preamble, she declared, “I wish to be your agent in Mexico.” At that point in my career, I had yet to secure representation.

Unfazed, she pressed on, “I already have twelve individuals lined up, eager to commission portraits. These potential clients are keenly awaiting an introduction.”

Feeling surprised and excited, I responded, “I’m tied up with commitments for the next two months. Are these clients based in Mexico?”

She affirmed, revealing that the portrait enthusiasts were ready but eager for me to immortalize them, all residing in the lively city of Mazatlán.

She outlined her proposal further: “You must double your rates, and I will take a 25% cut,” she stated confidently. “I’ll handle sales, language translation, and financial transactions. You’ll be accommodated in a beachfront hotel suite, and transportation will be available whenever required.”

Yet, she added one caveat: “However, you’ll need to cover your own meals.” Her words hung in the air, painting a vivid picture of opportunity wrapped with a dash of adventure.

I bought her lunch, and we talked some more, and of course, I fell in love with this lovely, vibrant woman. Of course, she was married with children.

Over the subsequent two months, our telephone conversations became a recurring event. The potential commissions steadily increased, blossoming from the initial dozen to 15, then 25, and finally swelling to an impressive tally 30. Eagerly, I secured my flight for the start of February, ready for this new chapter.

Upon my arrival, her entire family greeted me warmly at the airport. As we drove to the hotel, our conversation filled the air, effervescent and brimming with anticipation.

Upon reaching the hotel, she escorted me to my top-floor suite, which boasted panoramic views of the stunning bay. The phone rang as I began to unpack, immersing myself in the new surroundings. My first commission was waiting — a client eager for my artistic touch, stationed in the hotel bar.

Upon introduction, we swiftly arranged to meet the following morning, anticipating the more favorable light. As the client took her leave, my agent dropped a thrilling revelation — the tally of prospective portraits had skyrocketed to an incredible 45. The news left me in a state of elation.

However, she had one special request; she desired to be immortalized in a life-sized portrait that would preside over her mantelpiece. I readily agreed, captivated by the extraordinary proposition.

The following day marked the start of a consistent routine. I photographed the client amidst the verdant charm of her garden, commencing the painting shortly after. Evenings were dedicated to meeting my next subject. This rhythm continued for weeks on end; strikingly, each of my commissioners was an undeniably beautiful woman.

The culmination of my two-year sojourn in Mazatlán was an astonishing portfolio of 65 commissioned portraits, including the life-sized rendering of my exquisite agent. I had a wonderful adventure, made new friends, and improved my painting methods. Life had unfolded an opulent canvas for me, each day a new stroke of gratitude painted with the vibrant hues of good fortune.

Annelise Lords, Dr. Gabriella Korosi, Nathan Chen

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