Sweet, free cake. I’ll get some after the announcement. “It’s at this time each year we announce…” I need a seat. Or a glass of water. I need both. Is it hot in here? Just stay calm. “…and is awarded to a young designer at the start of their career” There’s no point getting worked up. You’re not going to win any way. Ok that helps. No it doesn’t. Just focus on the next steps. You’ve gotta get that laptop organised soon… “David” There are no other finalists called David. “Foster” Ok, calm down. I said calm down! I’m calm. No I’m not. “Is David here?” Put your hand up. What am I doing? “Come down the front!”
It was then, as I moved to the front of the crowd surrounding the podium that all I could think about were my plans unravelling. This helped my situation by suppressing a strong urge to roll on my back and giggle like a schoolgirl. Instead, I stood in disbelief, staring into the distance, possibly talking to myself too. I felt like a trout clocked on the head with a bat by a timid 8-year-old landing his first catch.
It’s likely the people viewing this were thinking, “He doesn’t look that happy.” But this was one of the most euphoric and humbling moments of my life. A moment that’s only just begun seeping into my reality days later. A moment that I’m deeply grateful for.
My thanks go to all those who have congratulated me, especially the other finalists. I also thank those who encouraged me to apply a second time. Finally, I thank those who make this grant possible at a time when arts funding around the world is being cut.
Departure is set for the 25th August to begin the course on the 8th September. It will run for approximately one year. If you are curious, you can see more about the course here. This is an amazing opportunity, but the hard work is yet to come. But I promise to try my best and keep you all posted.
