Sites of Memory An exploration with William Smith

What is the role of public art in preserving collective memories? Why are female allegories often used in this way? Through a juxtaposition of at least two memorials on the Upper West Side, the Straus Memorial and the first fireman’s memorial, this guided walking tour led by William Smith will explore the figural statue as a site of mourning. It will emphasize the special role of allegorical sculptures for which Audrey Munson posed, in creating a public language for expressing and remembering loss.