2026 SPE Annual Conference: Catalyst for Exchange
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print this pageSpina Americana
Friday, October 25 - 2:00PM to 2:50PM
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Between 2016-2019 I documented some of the most isolated regions of Cuba in search of the national character. That was subsequently published as Campesino Cuba in 2021 (GOST). I decided for my next long-term project to turn my gaze upon my own country, in parts unknown to myself and most Americans, at a time of national division and political strife not seen here since the 19th century.
Spina Americana (American Spine) attempts at understanding a critical and often misunderstood section of the U.S.
I have carved out a 100 mile-wide path, 50 miles east/west of the geographic center (within the blue lines above). It runs vertically from Mexico to Canada, respectively, traversing the "spine" of the United States.
I will discuss the idea and catalyst for Spina Americana and why I think it is highly important during our presidential election year.
The work, book, and any presentation is neutral and non-partisan. It is, however, a statement on perceived divisions within our society, and how I believe through the act of observation and immersion, we have the power as citizens to move beyond any transitory divides.
In October, Spina Americana will be published by GOST Books (London) as Vol. 1 of a four-part series on the contemporary United States, titled Of Thee I Sing.
speaker
Richard Sharum
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