Local Calendar

The Search for the Medusa: Dinner Lecture at the Seacoast Science Center

6:00 p.m.

In 1980 a French marine archaeological expedition sailed to the still-uncharted waters of the Arguin Bank, in search of a famous 19th century wreck. On March 11, join the Technical Director of that mission, Charles Mazel, for a personal account of the adventures and technology used to locate the French frigate, Medusa. The tale of the Medusa has a prominent place in the annals of infamous sea disasters: of the 150 men and women abandoned on a makeshift raft only 15 remained alive, the rest having fallen victim to the sea, to mutiny, to starvation, and to cannibalism. The shipwreck and all that followed were the result of incompetent leadership, and when the tale reached France it caused a major political scandal, nearly toppling the government. But the story doesn't end there. It captured the imagination of the young artist Theodore Gericault, inspiring him to use it as the subject of a grand painting for the Paris Salon of 1819. Gericault's Scene of a Shipwreck (now known as Raft of the Medusa) was a sensation and proved to be a pivotal work in art history. It survives today as one of the treasures of the Louvre, and yet many people are unaware that it was based on a historical event. Charlie's talk recounts three stories: the events of the shipwreck, including its causes and aftermath; how Gericault came to paint his masterpiece; and the expedition to locate the Medusa's remains. The cost, which includes dinner, beverages and the talk, is $45/person for members; $55/person for non-members. Our Nature Store will open at 5:30 p.m. for your convenience. The reception begins at 6:00 p.m., followed by dinner and presention. Seating is limited and space fills quickly.

603-436-8043

Click for more info: www.seacoastsciencecenter.org