You are invited to relax and reflect over the busy festive period in ‘The Waiting Place’ at NOMA

8 December 2022

Manchester city centre neighbourhood NOMA is welcoming people to find some quiet time amongst the noise of the festive period and visit ‘The Waiting Place’ installation.

Throughout December, ‘The Waiting Place’ offers a city centre haven and a moment to relax and reflect in the centre of a black pine tree glade of light and sound.

In line with NOMA’s commitment to being a community-led neighbourhood, it is inviting visitors to collaborate with the concept. People are invited to take a moment to ponder what they are waiting for over the Christmas period – whether that may be for the big day itself, the snow, the days to get longer or the New Year. These reflections of the city’s mood will grow throughout the month in an ever-changing public art piece.

As part of NOMA’s sustainable approach to development, no part of this installation is single use. The six pine trees are on loan from its on-site tree nursery that was born from the PlantNOMA initiative and will be returned in the New Year where they will continue to be nurtured before being planted in their permanent home in the public realm.

Curated by Standard Practice, ‘The Waiting Place’ will be open from 8th December through to the New Year.

To celebrate the idea of patience and mindfulness during the festive season, NOMA will also be hosting a free to attend ‘Slow Giving’ event across Sadler’s Yard and New Century on December 15th, 12-2pm and 4-7pm.

Visitors are invited to make and buy seasonal gifts that takes a little time, with a series of mindful festive makers workshops including gardening, print making, pottery, metal work and cookery. There will also be free treats to look forward to from NOMA residents New Century and Pot Kettle Black.

Dan Hyde, Development Director at real estate asset manager and developer MEPC, said:

“Christmas can be overwhelming at times as people feel the pressure to get everything prepared and organised, with very little opportunity to reflect and relax. That’s why we’re offering people a moment to get away from the chaos and look back on 2022 or consider their hopes for the future.