In October 2019, the Kunstraum ZNER art space hosted a prototypical system constellation as part of an exhibition. The exhibition was titled “come what may. Permanent assumptions.” and dealt with resilience as its central theme.

The term “resilience” originally comes from materials science. Applied to humans, it describes the ability to absorb disturbances without losing one's identity, structure, or function. Resilience can also be described as “mental toughness.”

In keeping with the exhibition theme of “resilience,” we asked questions about the role of resilience in neoliberal times. The prototypical system constellation—originally a coaching tool—is also ideal as a curatorial tool: it can enrich or deepen the perspective on the theme or inspire texts for publications. When curators and artists participate, it can create a direct frame of reference for an exhibition. It is a connecting and humorous group experience, and the surreal setting fosters creativity in unexpected ways.

The following ten representatives were included in the prototype system constellation:

Citizen, society, state, capitalism, dependency, resilience, resignation, ethics, perception, evaluation