In the end, I’m more of a nut who hates the misuse of language. I think it’s important to be precise, especially when making public policy. I might as well give up on this one, though: when Elaine Spaull says she wants art, she cites ArtWalk. Enough said. She’s made it perfectly clear that she doesn’t want something that makes people think — something that inspires dreams and nightmares — but rather something that looks more hand-crafted than the even repetition of mass-production.

I like to see things that make me think. And in that, I’m among a tiny minority. The majority wants to either not think, or to only see that which they agree with.

So alas, I throw up my hands and admit defeat. I think the direction the city is going is not a good one, so I think it is valid and valuable to say that no action is preferable, and anti-action may even improve things (that is, if the city would just get out of the way rather than dabbling in draconian permit processes). However, the only option I’m permitted to present is an alternative action — inaction is not allowed — and I have no such action to offer.

I can only hope that people like Bleu Cease persist. I don’t know what his grand plan is, but I too applaud his patience and respect his skill, and I think his results have been very favorable.

You have hit on something big on the lack of knowledge about art and culture in this community. The big question is “how do we bring in the real thing and get the community on board?” A full frontal attach is never a good answer. The “tagging” that is happening around the city and what I see in the south wedge is vandalism. Not even close to art. Pissing with paint anonymously is stupid. Own up and put a name and face to it. Graffiti has shown it self quietly around town as interesting comments with paint, stickers and posters threaded throughout our public spaces. Much more interesting even though the anonymity. Mural size graffiti works are better when thoughtfully and respectfully are integrated in the community vernacular. So, Tagging, No. Graffiti, Yes.

What is a possible solution can be identified in the creative subcultures that are spawning around the city in the form of performances. Including dance, theater and music. Stuff that does not make your circa-1990′s community calendar. There is a ton of talent. Young talent. With a little more time and confidence this will start to influence the “creative culture” of the city in the weeks, months and years to come. I have confidence Rochester will evolve. I wish it would happen sooner than later.

I, too, wish there was better leadership in the Rochester art community. Bleu Cease has and is doing the right thing. His influence is slow, but it is positive influence. Rochester needs more creative leaders with inspiring projects that engage the community and please curmudgeons (term of endearment) like yourself. Together, let’s identify what is “good” or even “great” and flying well under the radar of Rochester’s art fanatics.

Yes, adults coloring with crayons, sipping cheap sodas, chatting quaintly and making marks on cardboard squares is not a “high art experience”. I look forward to see what you come up with to counter this event that demonstrates a grander vision that introduces young adults who are desperate to make a difference in their community to a “REAL A-R-T” experience. So, they can carry the flag to their peers.

I agree that the speakers all seemed to have their hands out (us included) but thought there was a lot of cool information being shared. We had a great time and met lots of really interesting folks.

It’s funny that you mention our pilot episode subject and your reservations. We’ve been going round and round on what exactly the best way to approach this subject is. Bernoulli’s Principle and the equal transit-time fallacy have been the subject of more than one discussion, especially as those less science oriented (ME!) are brought up to speed. Getting the science “right,” regardless of what is popularly being taught in schools, while also making it fun, approachable and interesting is our paramount goal.