“The Passion of Sean Gillain” Chapter 8 Sneak Preview

“Mr. Gillain, your old designs that you submitted for your application packet are what we call hidden gems,” Ms. Demorest, my drawing teacher and fashion advisor, stated as I was kept back after learning the basics of composition and design. “Still, we think that there could be more vibrance and flair in some of your works.”

“I mainly was inspired by how I was living in a small town, the theme being rustic yet sophisticated nature of it all,” I stated. “Now, I will admit that there could be room for improvement since my artwork mainly came from middle school. But something told me that things are fine as they are.”

“Even so, Mr. Gillain, I can’t help but wonder if your work is a bit…well, distant and dialed down, as if they tell a story of someone who had to hold back and not give away too much.”

I inhaled sharply. “What are you saying?”

Ms. Demorest gave me a pointed stare. “Mr. Gillain, you basically lack passion in your craft,” she intoned gently. “It’s as if you’re trying to hide who you truly are.”

I hated when people call me out on that. “Ms. Demorest,” I began.

“I’m not trying to offend you, dear, but maybe you need to start with the basics of being an artist before going into the world of designing clothes. You need to start showing people who you want to become by looking within yourself. Tell me something, why do you hold back? What is it that you don’t want people to know about you?”

I sat back in my chair, my heart pounding even as I kept a calm facade. “There’s not much to know about me, ma’am,” I replied. “But in all honesty, I’m trying to find out what my ‘passion’ in life is. You and the other teachers know my story by now, how I was sent here after a health scare when I finished senior year in high school. For the most part, I feel like every single day that I wake up is like I have to be in survival mode. Going through the motions is kind of my normalcy back home.”

Ms. Demorest nodded. “And did you feel like you can’t open up to anyone?” she asked.

“Only when it comes to-” I stopped mid-sentence, not wanting to dive into THAT topic. “I can’t fully talk about it yet, ma’am. All I can tell you is that I’m learning what it means to live and not just survive while being a fashion student.”

The older woman nodded twice. “Well, maybe it’s best that you start by channeling what you’re dealing with into your work and classwork,” she suggested. “I want you to not only learn the basics of fashion for your time here at RISD, but also work on a collection that shows the real version of you. Realness comes from within your heart and soul, not just your mind and body. I want you to be authentic with your craft while rebuilding your art from the ground up. Think you can do that?”

I nodded. “I can try, but-“

“Don’t just try, Sean. REALLY go for it and push yourself, but remember to ask for grace and patience while you work.”

I inhaled deeply. “I can work with that, Ms. Demorest. And if it helps, I’m seeing a therapist to help me cope with my past and all.”

“Go for it, Mr. Gillain. And never be afraid to start being a part of the RISD social life. There’s a world of opportunities around the corner. Enjoy yourself, but remember your priorities…”

You’ll never forget the first time! “The Passion of Sean Gillain” has returned with all new chapters starting this weekend, available EXCLUSIVELY on Wattpad! Don’t miss it!

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