“Tell me more. How would this work?”
“Maybe, rather than have a specific color on the walls or tables, we can mix things up. First, we can use some of the work from the cabinetry students to display sculptures and other artworks. We could even include some of their smaller pieces in the show.
“Second, I don’t want to segregate anyone’s work. I think having all different artists and media displayed side-by-side, one on top of the other, would show how similar we are too. So rather than show my vase alongside my head sculpture, put my head sculpture next to a photo of a person with a similar expression. And if there is a drawing of a flower, place it above my vase. Taking all different media and putting them together into one display that ties them all together. Will that work?”
Mr. Wellner lifted his head, as what I said seemed to sink in. He nodded several times, and his eyes opened wider.
“I believe, young lady, that this year’s art show will be the best ever. You’ve brought a wonderful idea to the table. I’m surprised you didn’t discuss this with me sooner. I was afraid you were having trouble.”
“Honestly, I was having trouble, but after struggling so much over our differences, this really makes the most sense. We can even display poems and short stories, maybe some song lyrics. We all have different ways to express ourselves, and I want to make sure I include everyone.”
“Wow.” He sat back in his chair. “This sounds great, Aislinn. I already have all the art and photography students’ work on the counters, but if you want writings, songs and woodwork, I’ll need to get something to those teachers today.” He rubbed his chin. “Do you have anything to do at home or in your other classes? I’ll need you here all week, especially if I’m going to throw so many other students’ works at you tomorrow. Maybe you should take care of your own works going into the show and then use the rest of the day to get ahead in your other classes.”
“It’s a deal.”
He was right. I would be in the studio all week. But my other classes, Photography and Career Writing/Resume Builder, were nothing to be concerned over. I didn’t even need my resume class yet, not until the end of my degree, but being so young and up against so many talented artists, I wanted to knock out my resume as soon as possible. At least then I’d know what I needed to add. My hope was to get a job as soon as my art classes were out of the way, then I could be working in the field while taking the monotonous classes in the evenings. I had no way to know if all my pushing would do me any good, but I was determined.
I applied some slip to a few sculptures waiting for the kiln, and set them in the drying locker. It would be a couple of days before there were enough pieces to load the kiln again, so I headed out.
“Thanks, Mr. Wellner. I’ll see you bright and early.” Lost in thought already, he merely raised his hand in response.
I had every intention of heading home. The weekend’s events had left me sleep deprived, and chancing a surprise encounter with Jaden wouldn’t be good. Before sneaking off to my car, I surveyed the parking lot. It was clear.
My heart ached at the idea of seeing her. I still didn’t know how she would react to me or what to say to her. Maybe ignoring one another was the safer route.
Before I could make it to the car, a soft voice called my name from behind. I turned, wide eyed with worry that it might be Jaden.
“Aislinn?” Hope spoke so quietly that I almost couldn’t hear her.
“Yes?”
“Are you headed out?” Her shoulders fell forward slightly. “If you are, I thought maybe you would want to hang out. I had a great time the other night, and I’d love to get together with you more often. My only class for the day is over. What do you say?”
“Oh, um… That actually sounds great.” Thankful for her company, I chuckled with a hint of disbelief. “What do you want to
Eleanor Coerr, Ronald Himler