LES ATELIERS DE DESIGN
Designing Things for "Nothing"
For creative thinkers, designers, and makers adopting the Design for Nothing approach, this review is just one way to apply it.
Overview
For designers who adopt the Design for Nothing methodology, the central aim is to continuously remind the mind of its true nature, encapsulated in the 'embodiment' of no-thing, or Presence, or Pure Consciousness. For those confined within physical limitations or whose thoughts are deeply rooted in material desires and personal ambitions, Design for Nothing serves as a radical, iconoclastic, and at a minimum, conceptual beacon, urging a shift in our perception of reality.
The outcome of this practice nurtures a spiritual encounter for its users, reverberating with a joy that is courageous enough to exist devoid of material wants. It beckons for a sublime detachment from worldly bindings. Moreover, individuals acquainted with the nondual philosophies underpinning this approach can amplify their spiritual insight, recognize their inherent unity with everything, and experience profound tranquility through their engagement with the designed artifact or environment.
For Martin Lenclos, the consistent application of this method in recent years to foster a cognitive reconnection to our spiritual essence means that a design 'for no-thing' can also serve as a powerful pointer or visual marker to the truth of our Self. It becomes a medium for cultivating acceptance and releasing judgment.
Examples of a design research using Design for Nothing
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Design to provoke non-attachment, meditative self-exploration, and personal well-being.
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Design immaterial experiences to increase awareness and promote greater peace of mind.
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Design the personal living space to transcend worldly materialism and foster a contemplative lifestyle.
The Paradox of the Typical Atypical Chair / Production shot
Visualize Creation from Emptiness
Consider the potential that lies in a state of ultimate nothingness, inspired by the Daoist idea of Wuji or an undifferentiated, unified beginning. In this emptiness, visualize your natural creativity free from worldly desires or ego-driven motives. Imagine it taking shape as something pure and selfless, like light or love. By focusing on this vision, you can cultivate a more generous and selfless understanding of well-being that's grounded in the interconnectedness of all things.
Align the Doing with Being
In every action or project, detach from the expected outcomes, valuing the journey more than the destination. In this mindful alignment, discover a joy and fulfillment unanchored by fleeting successes. As you delve into creativity and tasks, stay unswayed by social conditioning, roles and identities of the past, or speculations of the future and remain rooted in your true essence by frequently reconnecting with inner stillness.
Practice Transcendent Release
Stay fully conscious by consistently releasing judgments and living in the present—the closest experience to your eternal self, unified, at peace. Judgments perpetuate an illusion of separateness. Be mindful of the ego's inclination to critique your creations. Instead, look beyond the physical to your spiritual essence. Embracing this transcendental release in all aspects will grant you immense freedom in all endeavors.
Let "Design for Nothing" become a mantra, a gentle reminder that the ultimate value lies not in the physical world but in the recognition of your essence as embodying 'no-thing.'
Explore the "Design for Nothing" spiritual approach →