Where positivity is plugged in

Self-improvement rhetoric places a disproportionate amount of pressure on being positive. Philosopher Byung-Chul Han argues that this relentless positivity leads to self-aggression and self-exploitment. Where Positivity Is Plugged In visualises this dynamic through a performative installation based on a power plant. Positive quotes spread via Twitter hashtags are printed in real-time on a printer. The printed material is burned in a fireplace that produces electrical energy for the printer. Green ritual candles representing prosperity, money and success turn the power plant’s propellers. Through this self-defeating cycle, the installation demonstrates that no amount of positive thinking will result in inner peace.