Collectivebreak are experimenting in rest. Join us in writing, mindful movement and embroidery. Tired bodies and minds welcome.
How do we go slow in a world that goes so fast? How do we rest in times of crisis?
London and Leipzig based collectivebreak, invite you to experiment in rest.
Collectivebreak formed as a protest against self-optimisation and hyper productivity and in defence of connection, vulnerability and rest.
We believe it is an act of protest to sit still, to do nothing, to turn your brain off, and share that space with other people.
Throughout this workshop we will guide you through the methods we have developed whilst working on our project Experiments in Rest. The first half of the workshop will consist of mindful movement, writing and discussion, within the immersive space of fabric and sound.
We will then join together to practice our ‘Creative Writing with A Needle’ embroidery, reflecting on what it takes to slow down, and how to use craft and creativity without a need for productivity or skill.
No prior writing, sewing or resting skills are required. Tired bodies and minds are welcome. We particularly welcome participants from Tower Hamlets and those who recognise themselves or their experiences within the themes of the collective’s work.
All materials needed (including tea and biscuits) will be provided. Participants should wear comfortable clothing.
Collectivebreak aims to create an accessible, inclusive space. This is a multi-sensory workshop with integrated audio description. It is a relaxed space, and you can leave and re-enter at any time. The room will have adjustable light levels and a variety of seating options, including floor seating and seats with armrests.
If you have any questions about accessing this workshop, contact us (collectivebreak@gmail.com) or the St Margaret’s House team.
Testimonials: ‘The desire to rest is universal whatever your age or background. It was interesting to compare the thought of the four younger artists with my own...a beautiful, brave, important, timely, sad, hopeful piece of work’
Emilia Schlosser, Ella Kennedy and Bridget Russon are artists, producers and facilitators. Together they form Collective Break, an international performance art group.
Their project Experiments in Rest is as much cultural research as it is performance and installation work. In a culture fixated on self-optimisation, urgency and time limits, how can we find rest within a system that forces us to be productive? Since when did doing nothing require so much mental effort? What would happen if we actually stopped doing something, fulfilling a purpose, defining our value by the product we present? We ask you to consider what binds us and who we are when we choose to pause.
Venue: The Chapel, St Margaret's House, 21 Old Ford Road, E29PL
Access: We are working to make our Grade II listed building more accessible but it will take some time. Please note that entry to the Chapel is not step-free. If you require access support (including our portable ramps), please get in touch via comms@stmargaretshouse.org.uk
Dates: Tuesday 11th , Wednesday 12th & Friday 14th March
Time: 7-9pm
Tickets: Free