Page 84 of The Examiner

MMAM was devised after our prospectus was published and long after the usual admissions process was under way. Gela wanted to assemble a class of good, experienced artists as her inaugural year. She could take what she learned from them and adapt the course for a more generalised intake, going forward. She’d seen some promising candidates. I remember this crossing my desk about a year ago – it was completely transparent. All fees were paid up front.

Ben Sketcher

Gela chose each and every one of those students by hand. But they weren’t all experienced artists. Patrick and Jonathan were acquaintances who had shown a passing interest in getting into art. She personally sought out the others to join the course.

Tilda Ricci

I’d say that showed initiative on the part of the tutor. The department is under pressure to make its courses relevant to the job market. All Gela’s MAs have been cut, and the BA course is fully staffed. This one is her idea and she has to make it work.

Ben Sketcher

The university has admissions criteria. Demographics they must adhere to.

Tilda Ricci

They’re a very diverse group. Gela is a woman of colour herself and has been active in opening opportunities to students from underrepresented groups. Personally, I think she’s done an excellent job. Whatever problems you’ve picked up on, Ben, I am confident the tutor is entirely innocent.

Ben Sketcher

Gela brings the group together. She arranges for them to pitch an idea for an art project to a local manufacturer. In sourcing material for it, they discover a strange voice broadcasting from a mysterious radio. Then someone disappears. Or at least one of the students seems to think so.

To: MMAM(FTP)

From: Gela Nathaniel

Date: 23 February 2024

Subject: Assignment Four

Dear all,

Thank you for submitting your Assignment Four projects in good time. I gave you freedom of expression, with the only stipulation that you must work in your least-explored medium and create something inspired by the final project. When we’re all back in the studio next week we’ll view and critique the work. It should prove light relief from construction of the head and the tunnel.

Enjoy your weekends.

Gela

Doodle message group [Private] Jem and Gela, 23 February 2024:

Jem Badhuri

Is Alyson still coming to the studio or is she working from home?

Gela Nathaniel

That’s a strange question, Jem. Of course she’s coming in, although mainly at night.

Jem Badhuri

Have you seen her lately?

Gela Nathaniel

Yes. I’m sure I have.

To: Gela Nathaniel

From: Griff Technician (Maintenance)