We’ve all been in that office, lobby, or meeting room – perfectly functional but slightly boring. Perhaps it has no art on the walls at all, or maybe the designers played it safe with art that is inoffensive and inexpensive (and therefore barely noticeable). Either way, the environment does nothing to foster creativity or engage the senses.

Of course, there is extensive research to tell us that art in the workplace can produce positive benefits; mood is enhanced, productivity improves, and creativity is sparked. So why does it matter what type of art businesses put on display?

A thoughtfully curated, carefully considered program of original artworks has the potential do more than decorate. Rather, true connection between artworks and the business environment can affirm and reinforce the business’s core intentions – if a company says they are innovative thinkers, deploy cutting edge technology, and go above and beyond in their customer service, the art program they choose needs to reinforce these attributes. Ill-considered or safe art speaks to staying well and truly within the comfort zone and doesn’t convey the right messages.

Beyond this, meaningful art creates an influential experience for visitors and employees. I attended an after hours function recently at a business which displays my art, and during a chance conversation with another guest, he mentioned that as he got out of the lift and saw my large pieces in the boardroom, he said to himself, “wow, this outfit obviously means business”. The fact that the young company had invested in a visionary art program, positively influenced this guest’s viewpoint on how they run their business in general.

Art silently speaks volumes.  

More deeply, art also offers genuine connections to place, local history, and culture. Art that comments on or reflects its environment or the local context offers a more complex, relevant, and impactful experience for people spending time in the space.

Good art, carefully curated and considered in context, contributes to a dynamic environment and invites employees and visitors to gaze more closely, to question and discuss, and in doing so sparks connection and creativity.

In this way, art works for all those who engage with it, as well as working for the artist to convey a message, and working for the business by affirming its values.

Art at work should indeed be art at work.