At a time of ubiquitous crisis, this multidisciplinary anthology explores “breath” as an allegory and expression of the need for social transformation

Collecting interviews, critical essays and artist portfolios, Lastgaspism considers matters of life and death in relation to breath, both allegorical and literal. Bringing into mutual proximity the ecological, political, public health and spiritual crises of our time, this book considers the compounding nature of these events and their impact upon one another, illuminating how the act of gasping for breath is starkly exposing the either/or that stands before us: either we breathe or we die. Through aesthetic and socially engaged strategies of all kinds, cultural workers are responding to the most urgent issues in contemporary life. Lastgaspism offers a framework to help us make sense of the interlocked crises of the unfolding present and asks with critical optimism what can happen in this time of transition.

Text by: Kimberly Bain, Sandra de la Loza, Cheryl Derricotte, Kenneth Bailey, Lori Lobenstine, Erin Genia, Pato Hebert, Damon Locks, Kelli Morgan, Karthik Pandian