Page 30 of The Examiner

Ah, you mean when they refused to wine and dine the industry guest? Gela didn’t like that at all. I’ve not seen her so worked up.

Jem Badhuri

The funny thing is they *both* objected to taking the guest out and snapped at Gela. Last night, when I was waiting for Dad, they were together in the studio. From my little spot by the door I could hear them discussing Assignment Three. They were really friendly and chatty. What do you make of that?

Patrick Bright

I don’t know.

Jem Badhuri

A few weeks ago they spoke to each other in single words, if at all. If they could avoid each other, they did. It’s been like that since Alyson set fire to his assignment. But TBH he should’ve thanked her – he resubmitted and got a C, when Gela point-blank refused to let anyone else improve their grade that way. Jonathan seems to have forgotten that now.

Patrick Bright

What did you think of the industry guest then? Nice old fellow?

Jem Badhuri

He has a gallery, but then so does Jonathan, and he’s the least talented student on this course.

Patrick Bright

Ah, now that’s not so.

Jem Badhuri

That’s what Gela thinks. You can hear the awkwardness in her voice when she talks about his work.

Patrick Bright

He’s one of the least experienced. He’ll catch up.

Jem Badhuri

How did he get on this course? Gela selected me. She came to my degree show. A hundred students were exhibiting their work, but it was me she noticed and invited to apply.

Patrick Bright

That’s nice. I imagine Gela has to balance things. The designers who want to improve their art and the artists who want to commercialise their work. That’s before you get to the clashes of personality!

Jem Badhuri

Clashes of personality? OMG! What have you noticed?

Patrick Bright

Oh, just big characters, lots of talent and ambition. But everything will shake down for the final project, I’m sure. It’s a group effort, so we’ll have to get along for that.

To: MMAM(FTP)

From: Gela Nathaniel

Date: 14 November 2023

Subject: Final Project

Dear all,