Maria Eichhorn. Arbeit/Freizeit

This artist’s publication is part of a project by Maria Eichhorn for the former Generali Versicherung Landesdirektion Ost in Berlin. In contrast to the Kunst-am-Bau (art-in-architecture) projects that were flourishing in the new state capital at the time, a different approach was taken here. Instead of focusing on the building and its surfaces to be decorated with art, this project was geared towards the staff. The artist’s suggestion was to organize an exhibition of the workforce in the company building and thus stimulate a process of reflection.

Maria Eichhorn’s project was not about people in their definition as labor, but in their interaction with the area of leisure. Long a by-product of working time, leisure time has become increasingly important and has long been recognized as an economic factor, which in turn means work. The project was implemented in several stages with the participation of around sixty employees. First, the project was presented at a works meeting and the workforce was invited to take part. To support them, Maria Eichhorn drew up a list of questions that the employees could answer and which she evaluated confidentially. They were then invited by the artist to suggest a suitable object for the exhibition in the company building that they felt described the field of work and leisure. To present the exhibits, Maria Eichhorn designed a large display case that was set up in the foyer. An aquarium and a plant, which were also suggested, were added.

The publication documents the project and can also be seen as the company’s “identity card.” By giving every single employee space as an individual, it continues the emancipation of the individual, a fundamental idea of modernity. The project participants are presented in short portraits via interviews in the publication. The project Work/Leisure includes the contributions of the participants, a publication with text contributions and the exhibition display.