Inez McDermott
Inez McDermott has been teaching art history and curating art and history exhibitions in New Hampshire since 1986. In her classes and research she explores the ways that art can play a role in social engagement, participatory democracy, and activism. Her specific research interests focus on historical and contemporary New Hampshire art and artists, with a particular focus on 19th-century photography.
Contact
Inez McDermott
Concord, NH 03301
imcdermott57@gmail.com
Phone: 603-738-2204
Available Program Formats: In person or online presentations
Inez McDermott's Programs

Augustus Saint-Gaudens and the Cornish Colony
By the early 20th century, Cornish, NH, in the shadow of Mount Ascutney, had become a summer haven for artists, writers, architects, musicians and other creative people. At the center of it all was renowned American sculptor, Augustus Saint-Gaudens. While the respite from city life and the area's natural beauty was appealing, even more so was the opportunity for creative people to enjoy each other's company, to share their ideas, to work hard and play hard, all within a days journey to New York and Boston. This presentation will explore the art and life of Augustus Saint-Gaudens, and introduce some of the creative artists, writers, architects and others who were drawn to the area.

Join us as we celebrate 50 years of bringing the humanities to your community!

The Old Man: His Life and Legacy
When the Old Man of the Mountain fell from his perch high above Franconia Notch, on May 3, 2003, it made international news. Many in New Hampshire and beyond responded as though mourning a beloved public figure. This program presents the "story" of the Old Man and examines the ways that public perceptions of the Profile played a role in shaping and establishing New Hampshire's identity, both symbolically and physically. We will discuss the stories of the many people who played a part in "saving" the Old Man, from the risk-taking mountaineers and engineers who kept the ledges in place for so many years, to the school children who gave their pennies to help protect the forest around him. Participants will be encouraged to tell stories of their own encounters with this iconic symbol as we discuss why these granite ledges – the result of a "miraculous accident" according to a state geologist – have played such an outsized role in the hearts of so many.

Join us as we celebrate 50 years of bringing the humanities to your community!