Page 158 of The Examiner

Best wishes,

Gela

To: Gela Nathaniel

From: Patrick Bright

Date: 19 May 2023

Subject: Re: MA course

Dear Gela,

Thank you for your email. I feel flattered you’ve considered me for your new course. I thought you had to get a BA before you did an MA, but according to the girls in the shop, what you said is right – these days that’s not the case. I’ve blown hot and cold over the whole thing. It’s a lot of time and money to commit. What if I don’t enjoy it? What if I’m so far behind the others, I hold them back, let you down and embarrass myself? I’m honoured you think I’d be a good candidate, but I’m going to say no, thank you. You’ve given me something to think about maybe, for the future, but not this time.

Patrick

To: Patrick Bright

From: Gela Nathaniel

Date: 19 May 2023

Subject: Re: MA course

Dear Patrick,

Your sketches are way above the standard of your average MA student. The group will come from many different backgrounds and specialisms – from fine art to 3D to computer animation. I can GUARANTEE you will stand out, not as inadequate, but as excellent.

Now, Patrick, over the years you would not believe the number of people who, when they hear I teach art, confess they would love to pursue it themselves, especially in retirement. There’s always a reason not to, and they don’t. The result is they go to their graves unfulfilled – and the world is denied the wonderful art they would have created. If time is a problem, remember this course is only three days a week during term time. If money is a problem, I can tap Royal Hastings’ discretionary fund for you.

Please, Patrick, reconsider.

Gela

To: Gela Nathaniel

From: Patrick Bright

Date: 22 May 2023

Subject: Re: MA course

Dear Gela,

I’ve had a think over the weekend and a chat with the girls in the shop and they agree with you. They say they’ll work any extra hours needed – I’ll have to pay them of course, so, if you could look into the funding, that would be very handy. I can’t believe I’m going to be an art student. I’ve had people in the shop debating whether to get themselves a watercolour kit or a set of oils – and I’ve given them the talk you just gave me. I’m taking your advice and my own. I’ll see you in September!

Patrick

To: Patrick Bright

From: Gela Nathaniel

Date: 22 May 2023

Subject: Re: MA course

Dear Patrick,