Breath held
Scott Langley
A heart shaped breath held film 2024
A heart shaped breath held photo 2024
The sculpture is manifested as a 39-second film loop of a heart shaped breath held in shape by a foil balloon. As the film loops endlessly, it reflects the cyclical nature of existence, echoing Beckett's quote, "we are breath held in shape". The film captures the fleeting essence of life through the repetitive depiction of a last breath held in shape, emphasizing the transition from the tangible to the ephemeral, from life to memory. The sculpture invites viewers into a meditative space where time seems suspended. The final breath becomes a symbol of love and the profound connection between life and death. The repetition of the film not only emphasizes the brevity of life, but also highlights the persistence of memory. Each repetition deepens the emotional impact, reinforcing the idea that our existence is both fleeting and eternal, existing in the continuous cycle of remembrance. Through this sculpture, I aim to explore the intersection of life, death, and memory within the context of Beckett's existential philosophy. By focusing on the essence of breath, I invite viewers to reflect on their own mortality and the significance moments that shape our lives. Ultimately, the sculpture serves as a reminder of the fragility and beauty inherent in human existence.