Chapter 16
Elise - Reinforcements
As my uber exits the highway into downtown Ottawa, I’m struck by the energy emanating from the large capital city with stunning architecture and a long canal running through it.
This city is giving me Chicago vibes, including the climate with temperatures very similar to my hometown this time of year.
Fortunately, my hotel is located only about a block from the Ottawa Arts Foundation where the interview is taking place, so I have plenty of time to check in to the hotel, freshen up, and get my bearings before tomorrow’s interview.
As I’m unpacking my things, there’s a knock at the door.
“Shay! What are you doing here?”
She steps over the threshold, enveloping me in a hug.
“A little birdie told me you could use some moral support. Actually, a beast of a birdie who is head over heels in love with you. If I had any doubts about his intentions toward you before, I’m now convinced he’s one-hundred-percent committed.
He made it possible for me to get here and sent me along with some extra ammunition for your application.
I’ve got additional video footage, photos, and news articles about the installations at the arena, including footage of that recent interview the two of you did.
Also, several more letters of recommendation from important people in South Florida. ”
“He did all that for me?” I’ve been missing Jax since I got on the plane, but now I feel his presence here with me. My eyes well up with tears, the happy kind. I immediately fan my hands in front of my eyes to stave off the waterworks. “I told myself I wouldn’t cry, no matter what happens here!”
The next day, bolstered by Shay’s presence and the virtual support from Jax, I walk into the interview room with a boost of confidence and a smile a mile wide.
My nerves have finally settled down and I feel like I’m talking with a group of friends and fellow artists, rather than appearing before an evaluation committee.
Shay ably assists as I show samples of my work, explaining my design process, experimentation with new tools, and the research that goes into establishing each piece of art.
Lastly, I present the installations at the arena as a bonus case study for using art to illustrate history and to document the positive impact of the hockey team on community relations.
My presentation ends with a round of applause from the committee. I can feel the huge grin spreading across my face, and I can’t wait to share how well I think it went with Jax and my parents.