Art History Illustrated, Anatomy of a Disaster: The Making of Géricault's Raft of the Medusa

Art historian Brenda Edgar invites you to explore one of the nineteenth century's most powerful paintings—and the fascinating research behind it. In 1816, the French ship Medusa ran aground, leaving over 150 people stranded on a raft. Only fifteen survived. Artist Théodore Géricault spent months researching this tragedy, interviewing survivors and studying evidence before creating his masterpiece. During this illustrated talk, you'll learn how Géricault turned a real disaster into a monumental work of art, following the visual evidence and creative process he used. This talk is part of the monthly "Art History Illustrated" series, held at the Cultural Arts Center. It's a free evening program perfect for anyone curious about art, history, or how great works come to life. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply looking for an enriching cultural experience, this presentation offers insight into how artists grapple with difficult subjects and create lasting impact.