Creating a Culture of Connection
In the modern workplace, a momentary distraction is welcome, necessary and often productive. Giving us that bit of energy or spark that takes us into the rest of the day. Art has always provided inspiration – if not perspective. In corporate environments, where stress and deadlines are constants, art is a crucial element that can enhance creativity and productivity.
Art inspires
Some of our best ideas are born out of moments of reflection and calm. Whether painting, sculpture, or a photographic print, art challenges us to stop, think in new ways, and approach challenges differently. According to Forbes, incorporating art into business settings reflects a forward-thinking approach that enhances creativity and performance.
The presence of art feeds our creativity, often without us even realizing it. It’s not merely an addition to the workplace; it’s a feature that can inspire individuals, unite teams, and enrich the entire corporate culture.
Art is a connector
Art also plays a role in building community. Art-filled communal areas become natural gathering spots, encouraging conversations and collaborations that might not happen in more formal settings—company Jackson National Life incorporated art throughout their campus, including an impressive outdoor sculpture in a communal area. The large-scale sculpture acts as a landmark and a gathering place, encouraging interactions that build a sense of belonging and community.
Workplaces can benefit from incorporating art reflecting the local culture and community or their own culture. Corporate art collections might highlight local artists or underline a company’s mission and values. For example, nature-inspired pieces might highlight an environmental or sustainability commitment.
Art boosts productivity
It’s easy to see how engaging art can enrich our work environment and energize our daily routines. It can transform a simple industrial environment into a vibrant and inspiring area to work, pulling employees into a space they love to visit, hugely impact employee satisfaction, productivity and even retention.
The Guardian article “Art Works: How Art in the Office Boosts Staff Productivity” highlights Dr. Craig Knight’s study on art’s impact on workplace productivity. Knight, who has studied the psychology of working conditions, found that employees in art-enriched environments were 15% more productive and had fewer health complaints than those in minimalist offices. Contrary to the belief that distraction-free spaces improve efficiency, Knight’s study shows that art creates a more engaging setting, reducing stress and enhancing overall performance.
Art forward companies:
See below how some businesses are investing in art to enrich their corporate environments. These spaces reveal how art can elevate the overall experience and sense of community within the workplace.
- Facebook: In their New York office, Facebook turns its hallways into dynamic galleries. Through its Artist in Residence program, launched in 2012, Facebook invites contemporary artists worldwide to use its office spaces as a canvas. Here, artists are able to share messages that resonate with the community or company values. This initiative helps make the corporate culture feel less corporate, transforming everyday spaces into inspiring, art-filled experiences for employees.
- The New York Times: The New York Times showcases the power of art in its lobby with installation Moveable Type. This digital artwork consists of 560 small displays arranged in two large grids, including dynamic text from the paper’s daily output and archives. It adds an aesthetic element while also reflecting the company’s commitment to innovation and journalism. The interactive nature of Moveable Type transforms the lobby into a thought-provoking and immersive experience that sets the tone for the entire building.
- Trick Hat Workway: Locally, in Austin, Trick Hat Workway features a collection of Jeffrey Dell’s screen prints in their front conference room. With core values centered on unconventional, innovative, and inclusive, this choice reflects the essence of integrating art into the workplace. With it in a conference room, like Dell’s vibrant prints, art can inspire creativity and encourage innovative thinking during meetings, seamlessly weaving art into the fabric of the everyday.
Art in the workplace goes beyond mere decoration. When thoughtfully integrated into corporate spaces, it has the power to create environments that not only reflect a company’s values but also enhance employee well-being and performance. Whether as a brief distraction or a steady source of inspiration, the impact of art in the workplace is unquestionable.
