The residency hall reopened Friday afternoon for its scheduled series of public artist conversations. Thea's piece remained untouched after judging, with three chairs turned around the empty fourth place. Morning light gave every chair a separate shadow while leaving the open seat clearly visible.
Nina arrived through her approved media credential, then removed the badge before the personal discussion. I attended through the public visitor line rather than using event access left over from installation.
Thea stood beside her explanatory card wearing a structured green dress over black tights. The outfit carried no paint, work scarf, or tool pocket, allowing her to present the finished piece without displaying the labor clothes from yesterday.
"You look beautiful," Nina said after asking whether personal compliments felt welcome before the talk.
"Thank you," Thea replied, then looked toward me while leaving the same choice available.
