Workplace Art, Because It Draws People In and Inspires Them

Many of us enjoy having art in our homes, something beautiful in our space creating an environment which positively impacts us, but our experience with art in our workplaces can be very different.

Having moved away from the often demoralising motivational posters of the 90’s, many offices and public spaces have struggled to know what to put on blank walls. But these are spaces that can help inspire your people, staff and visitors alike, so what should you be displaying?

Does your workplace inspire?

Forbes published an article titled Bring People Back With The Most Unexpected Office Perks: Art And Beauty looking at how organisations can encourage people back into offices. The piece quoted a recent report by Brookfield Properties; as well as identifying improved employee satisfaction and productivity in well designed and creative spaces, one interesting finding was that “62% of people preferred working in an office rather than working from home. And the percentage rose to 75% when they worked in offices which were richer in terms of art, design and aesthetics.”

Will investing in art in your workplace actually make a difference to the people there? And, if so, how do you know what to choose?

1. Ensure your people feel valued and inspired

As well as promoting wellbeing (as discussed in the articles mentioned above), investing in the working environment shows your staff and visitors they are valued. This article in the Guardian even includes research showing people are more productive in creatively richer spaces.

Inspiration comes in many forms, the admiration of a piece in its own right or a drive towards the thing it represents - such as tropical beaches promoting aspirational thinking. 

• Quiet, reflective spaces in your building might benefit from welcoming, natural paintings which inspire calm.
• Exuberant, vibrant cityscapes may promote a buzz to motivate your team.
• Bold and unusual pieces might inspire creative teams to think differently.

What would the piece From the Ground Up by Craig Alan, for example, inspire in your people? 

2. Display your organisational values and culture

When thinking about what to display on your walls, one barrier can be the worry about finding something everyone will like - an impossible task, maybe? 

However, your organisation has its own culture and values, often coming from those at the top of the company but hopefully felt throughout the staff. Artwork which creates a visual impact and reflects the energy and drive of the company will help provide a positive experience for everyone who comes into the space.

For organisations proud of their environmental credentials, representations of the natural world may be the focus, while those very involved in the local area may choose to have artworks which reflect these places.

Do you have a dog-friendly working space? Maybe you should invite some of Nicky Litchfield’s friends into your office… Mischief or Curious Collie would surely be welcome. 

You could go a step further and commission an artist to produce something which truly represents your organisation promoting a sense of pride in your employees. This could be a painting, sculpture or mural that captures a moment in your business’ history to be celebrated into the future, or a place that means something to you. 

3. Celebrating success and talent

While this might be the portrait of your Employee of the Year or Salesman of the Quarter - you could also do something a little different such as framing memorabilia to represent an individual.

Equally, there are organisational success stories to share - visual representations or photographs of key project successes - whether it’s finished designs, architectural drawings, successful marketing campaigns or prototype products, does your work take centre stage?

You might also consider individuals within the organisation whose creations could be showcased. We worked with a web designer whose apprentice had a talent for pencil portraits, choosing to display her drawings on the walls made a statement not only about her talent but showed the supportive culture of the business. 

4. Promoting conversation and creativity

Being able to take time out to consider art in the environment is valuable for all of us helping individuals explore our own ideas. Research has shown that creative spaces feed personal creativity and - no matter your role - creative minds are good for any organisation.

Alongside personal contemplation, art prompts conversation with people likely to share their thoughts with others. These conversations are a wonderful way to find out more about the views and values of those you work with. 

The piece, Iris by Mr Brainwash, is likely to inspire conversation within any space.

Create a space that works for everyone

Brightening up a space and making it more welcoming is just one of the things artwork can do. 

If you’re looking for sculptures and artwork to inspire in your workplace, we have a team who’d love to help. Here at the Rose Gallery, we can provide guidance on the right piece, sourcing, framing and even renting artwork. 

Contact us at info@therosegallery.co.uk, visit our website www.TheRoseGallery.co.uk or in person within Bell Northampton.