In today’s economy-driven society, in which everything is measured by output and productivity, resting is also being optimised and commercialised. But what about the time spent resting that cannot be used efficiently and productively? Doing nothing or not having to do anything: no tasks or expectations to fulfil, no goals to pursue. Who is allowed to rest and who is not?
The mediation and advisory platform ZfN – Zentrum für Nichtstun (in English, Centre for Doing Nothing) addresses the topic of resting in the performance society across various contexts and offers a space for reflection: a manifesto on the centre’s website provides information about the motivations for rest, and there is an option to book workshops. The ZfN enables us to experience doing nothing through interaction with textile objects. A synthesis of clothing and cushions, they symbolise resting and serve as a conversation starter in the workshops, about individual and collective resting. Playfully and gently, they force us to do nothing.
«Leonie takes up the current slow shift trend in her project, offering workshops, consultations and a product series, and summarises her thoughtful reflections in a manifesto. The attractive cushion collection is comfortable and static at the same time, a good starting point from which to explore the topic of doing nothing. We should all practise it: for self-care, digital detox and also for environmental reasons.» – Excerpt supporting statement of the Subject Area Trends & Identity
«The ZfN highlights the importance of resting in a performance-oriented world and presents the act of doing nothing as a tangible, sensual experience.» – Leonie Dittli
«I would like to continue what I’ve been doing: observe, listen, query, shine a light on topics and nurture reflection.» – Leonie Dittli
