Julian’s Private Drawing

Julian has filled a sketchbook with drawings of imaginary places. Some are unfinished, and some belong only to him. At the lunchtime art club, he shows Sophie one page with a crooked tower. She likes it and raises her school-approved device to take a photograph.

Julian closes the book before she takes a photograph. “Please ask first,” he says. Sophie lowers the device. She had thought liking the drawing was enough. Mrs Moss comes to the table and makes sure Julian has space to explain what he wants.

Julian says that showing one person does not mean he wants a picture shared. His permission matters. Sophie checks that she has not saved a photograph. If an image had been taken, Mrs Moss would help them follow the school’s process for removing it and checking where it had gone.

Sophie asks whether there is anything Julian would like to share with the club. He says he wants to think about it. They put the device away and return to drawing separately. He does not need to offer a different page just because he said no to this one.

Later, Julian chooses a simple map he made for a group game. He shows Mrs Moss first and agrees to display that original sheet inside the room. They check the arrangement together. His sketchbook can remain closed beside his chair while the map is on show.

Julian feels respected. He chose what to show, to whom and in what way. He may make a different choice another day. His ideas can be appreciated while he keeps control of which parts stay private.