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Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site
New Film on Augustus Saint-Gaudens

A new hour-long feature documentary, Augustus Saint-Gaudens: Master of American Sculpture, was produced by the Trustees of the Saint-Gaudens Memorial with assistance from the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site. Paul Sanderson, of Our Town Films, Inc. is the film's producer and director.

The film recently appeared on New Hampshire Public Television and will be shown on national PBS later in the year. The film will also be available for sale in the fall.

Although millions today see Saint-Gaudens’ work in museums and public places, few know the man behind the art. The film will introduce new audiences to this artist and his work and show how he influenced American cultural life through the art of sculpture and as teacher and supporter of the arts. The documentary will cover Saint-Gaudens life, from his birth in Dublin, Ireland and childhood in New York City, though his rise to prominence in the art world both in Europe and the United States, and his continued legacy as one of the country’s greatest artists.

As a producer-director and president of Our Town Films, Paul Sanderson has enjoyed success in creating television documentaries and educational programs. Since founding Our Town Films in 1992, Mr. Sanderson has won over 30 national awards, including seven CINE Golden Eagles. His programs have appeared on NBC, PBS, The Discovery Channel, A&E Network, The History Channel and CNBC.

Most recently, Mr. Sanderson produced and directed The Gate of Heaven: The Story of Saint Thomas Church Fifth Avenue. This hour-long documentary portrays one of America’s preeminent parish churches through its 175 years of development. The film received a CINE Golden Eagle Award, a Crystal Award of Excellence, and a Telly Award.

Saint-Gaudens' home as it appeared in 1885 when he first saw it.  

Did You Know?
Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ home was actually built in 1817 as an Inn. A large ball room once occupied half of the second floor. When Augustus first saw the house in 1885, he thought it dreary and forlorn.

Last Updated: June 17, 2008 at 21:10 EST