Editor’s note: The Orcas Center presentation of “Leonardo Live” received some criticism from Terry Johnsonhttps://theorcasonian.com/letter-to-the-editor-leonardo-da-vincis-london-show (click on the article’s headline to read the comments from Orcas Issues readers that followed Johnson’s review.) Those comments emphatically agreed with Johnson’s viewpoint.

On March 7, the producer of the film, Phil Grabsky, responded. His letter follows.)

Dear all,

I am the director/producer of the show and am disappointed that some of you were unhappy.

It was my intention to try and share the privilege of access to the paintings that I have with those of you who can’t get into galleries after closing or, in this case, couldn’t get to the exhibition.

I have seen that in blogs or comment trails like this, the first one who writes sets the tone: most of the hundreds of responses have been very positive – but actually I agree with some of what you say – though not the rudeness with which you address Tim and Mariella.

But to get an art exhibition into international cinemas – for the first time! – meant dangling the carrot of ‘live’ (as commercially that has been a success in other genre). Actually the live elements were in my opinion unnecessary – at times even undermining – and I won’t do it live again. I agree with Terry that we want detail and insight. There was a lot there: and next time, taking on board critiques, they’ll be more…

I am keen to converse with folk as, simply put, I want to bring you films (whether about Mozart, Beethoven & Haydn – or about Afghanistan – or about exhibitions) that will entertain and inform – not infuriate…

Phil Grabsky

**If you are reading theOrcasonian for free, thank your fellow islanders. If you would like to support theOrcasonian CLICK HERE to set your modestly-priced, voluntary subscription. Otherwise, no worries; we’re happy to share with you.**