Role Model
October 24th, 2020
Starring: Artist (female), Model (male)
An art studio. Artist is beginning a portrait study, in front of a canvas. She stands and stares at Model, who is nude and sitting on a stool. He is still, but has a strange look on his face, as if something’s bothering him:
ARTIST
Are you ok?
MODEL
Yes, I’m fine.
ARTIST
I’m sorry but...is there any way you could soften your face?
MODEL
I really am trying...
ARTIST
Is something wrong?
MODEL
It’s my eczema. My behind gets super chafed from the bare contact with the stool.
ARTIST
We can take an itch break.
MODEL
I’d rather not.
ARTIST
There’s no shame in it.
MODEL
Once I start scratching, the itching only gets worse. I’m not going to be able to sit still.
ARTIST
So...what do we do?
MODEL
Sit through it. The feeling will go away, eventually.
ARTIST
But that’s torture.
MODEL
Yes. But this is what I do. I’m a role model.
ARTIST
Yes. Yes you are.
…
…
Change of plans. Itch it.
MODEL
What?
ARTIST
Itch it.
MODEL
It’ll ruin your study—
ARTIST
It’s what I want.
MODEL
But I’d really prefer not to aggravate—
ARTIST
I thought you said were a role model.
MODEL
I am.
ARTIST
Then be one.
Be “Portrait of a Man With Eczema Ass.”
A pause. Model gives in and itches his ass. We see relief, initially, then the slow onset of impending itchy doom. He starts to scratch away uncontrollably, whimpering. All the while, Artist grins, newly inspired, painting away at his uncomfy nude visage.