Meaning: Kenneth Noland, an American abstract painter, made this statement about his relationship with New York City. The quote reflects Noland's personal experience and perspective on the city's allure and influence on the art scene. Noland's decision to live in the countryside while maintaining proximity to New York sheds light on the dynamic relationship between artists and urban centers of cultural activity.

Noland's assertion that "the scene then as now was centered in New York" acknowledges the city's historical and ongoing significance as a hub for artistic expression, innovation, and collaboration. New York has long been recognized as a global epicenter for the arts, attracting creatives from around the world and serving as a catalyst for artistic movements and trends.

Noland's choice to "keep a bit apart from that attractive and seductive city" suggests a deliberate detachment from the intense and captivating energy of New York. This decision may have been driven by a desire for solitude, reflection, or a different kind of creative inspiration that the city's hustle and bustle may not have offered. By opting to live in the countryside within commuting distance, Noland sought to strike a balance between the stimulation of urban life and the tranquility of rural surroundings.

The juxtaposition of urban and rural living speaks to the duality of Noland's experience as an artist. While he acknowledges the magnetic pull of New York and its artistic community, he also values the respite and creative space that the countryside provides. This deliberate separation from the city's immediate influence allowed Noland to cultivate a unique perspective and artistic voice that was informed by both the urban and rural environments.

Noland's approach to living within commuting distance of New York City reflects a strategic positioning that enabled him to engage with the city's artistic scene while maintaining a degree of autonomy and distance. This arrangement allowed him to partake in the city's cultural offerings, such as exhibitions, galleries, and interactions with fellow artists, while also retreating to a quieter setting conducive to focused artistic practice and contemplation.

In essence, Noland's quote encapsulates the nuanced relationship that artists often have with major cultural centers such as New York City. It acknowledges the city's magnetic appeal and artistic significance while also highlighting the value of maintaining a degree of separation for the purpose of creative introspection and individual expression.

Overall, Noland's choice to live in the countryside within commuting distance of New York City reflects his deliberate navigation of the urban-rural dichotomy, allowing him to draw inspiration from both environments while maintaining a distinct artistic identity. This approach sheds light on the multidimensional nature of artistic experience and the diverse ways in which artists engage with the cultural epicenters that shape the contemporary art world.

In conclusion, Noland's quote offers a compelling insight into the complex relationship between artists and urban centers like New York, emphasizing the importance of balance, autonomy, and creative independence within the context of a vibrant and influential cultural landscape.