Vassar faculty, staff, and students and conference attendees are invited to attend a special, free viewing of Frederick Law Olmsted: Designing America. With gorgeous cinematography and compelling commentary, the film presents the biography of a man whose parks and preservation are an essential part of American life.
The event will include an introduction by consulting producer Laurence Cotton. As a landscape historian, Laurence Cotton is active with the Olmsted Network. As a biographer of Frederick Law Olmsted, Mr. Cotton frequently travels across the U.S. and Canada, presenting his PBS film Frederick Law Olmsted: Designing America and delivering a popular PowePoint talk about the Olmsted legacy–father, two sons, and Olmsted Bros. landscape architecture firm–across North America. Laurence brings a track record in producing programs for public radio and public television. 2022 saw the release of a new film Stewart Udall: The Politics of Beauty. In addition to filmmaking and public speaking, Laurence Cotton also serves as a historical lecturer on board small ship cruise vessels that ply the rivers, lakes, and coastlines of N. America, delivering talks on regional history and natural history. Though originally from Boston, Laurence has resided in Portland for 30 years and has developed a passion for interpreting the legacy of John Charles Olmsted in the Pacific Northwest.
Please note that conference attendees must drive, carpool, or use a rideshare service to get to and from the event. Transportation will not be provided.
This event is free and does not require an RSVP.