Unfortunately, on this occasion.
Dear Rob,
Thank you for your interest in our commission but:
I am sorry to write with disappointing news,
but we received a large volume of very high standard submissions,
Whilst we were impressed with your application, the response was overwhelming,
It was a difficult decision to make,
and the jury very much enjoyed considering your ideas
After reviewing a large number of impressive applications,
We considered your application with great interest
and although we felt that your work would be a good choice,
we had enormous interest from artists from England and abroad, so the selection process has been complex,
The panel very much enjoyed seeing your work and we have had the opportunity to consider all the candidates against the criteria we have specified for the project,
But after careful consideration,
We were looking for cohesiveness,
And there was something unique in all the selected submissions, and we would like to thank you again for your detailed and comprehensive submission as well as your patience during what has been an exhausting process of decision making and approval seeking, but unfortunately on this occasion your proposals have not been successful.
We would like to wish you well in all your future endeavours, and hope that you will apply for future commissions….blah blah.
I have accumulated a considerable collection of rejection letters over the years. I now have a world class selection of the highest quality letters. Once, I thought I would save them and display them in an exhibition called Unfortunately on this Occasion. I have gone off that idea now as the frames would cost me £1000’s of pounds, I would be unable to fit them in my car. Van hire would be required.
I did receive one which stood out from all the rest, an astonishing achievement considering the volume of competition. The standards were extremely high and there were many interesting candidates both from England and abroad. The letter I have chosen stood out by its closing line, as follows:
Please also accept my apologies for the delay in letting everyone know – I have been busy getting civilly partnered!
Best wishes
Abcdefg
Well congratulations Abcdefg, I will award you my now annual prize for the best and happiest rejection letter received.
