(K)eine Pause – Ausruhen im digitalen Zeitalter / (No) break – resting in the digital age
Villa Merkel, Esslingen am Neckar
11 July – 5 October 2025

The exhibition explores rest as a necessity and metaphor in a scheduling-driven world. There has long been an entire industry in the Western world centered around rest in both digital and analogue spaces. Rest is associated with work-life balance and functions as a means of self-optimization. At the same time, it is a physiological and psychological necessity that is often denied to the homeless, refugees, and those in precarious employment, for example. The exhibition explores this topic using a broad range of artistic approaches and a variety of media. At the same time, relaxation spaces will be created in the Villa Merkel itself, and a diverse accompanying program will be offered.