I attended last week’s Catskill Art Society art show in Livingston Manor and very much enjoyed the work of the various artists. While it’s true, art is always “in the eye of the beholder,” I think it is important to truly challenge ourselves, to step back and broaden our perspective to allow light in from the ends of the spectrum, not just from the ends of our field of view.

I was disappointed to read such a critical yet somewhat predictable review of the musical talent on display at the show. The music that Jordan McLean featured mixed impressive conventional talent with unconventional creativity in a form that explores. Like anyone offering revolutionary ideas, some critics will always react with predictable rejection, so yeah, “It’s not just you.” Honestly, my first listen was often interrupted by my internal monolog questioning exactly what is it, that I am listening to. By the second time listening, I stopped asking “what,” and then I was free to just enjoy it. When exploring or experiencing anything new, it takes more than one exposure to adjust the aperture on the mind’s eye. It also takes some creativity, willingness, and patience on the part of the viewer, or listener.

Jonathan Schroeder

Callicoon, NY