De, Dis, Ex

Black Dog presents the latest book in the `de-, dis-, ex-' series, edited by Marina Vishmidt and Melanie Gilligan. Comprising essays and interventions that range from the ethnographic to the parodic, Immaterial Labour explores the increasing conceptual and material convergence between the relations of production in culture and economy. Contributors from art and academic fields discuss the interpenetration of art practices that engage in research and exchange with the contemporary commerce in knowledge and affective products with its attendant labour market. The book uses historic paradigms of workers' movements, autonomous art initiatives as well as scientific knowledge prodcution as themes to discuss the viability and usefulness of `socially engaged' art practices. Through an unusual and inventive view, Immaterial Labour opens up a challenging debate about the role of art. An essential read for anyone interested in contemporary art as political practice.