Words such as “work”, “office”, and “workplace” do not–arguably–inspire enthusiasm. Instead their mention is more likely to paint a picture of uninspired spaces, where the monotony of desk after desk in cubicle after cubicle is the only motif, especially for those employed.
But does that truly need to be the visual definition of a workplace? While staying eager at work day-in and day-out might be a mythical idea, there are ways to break that pesky office space tedium and invite refreshing life back in. “How?” you ponder? Through art, of course.
Really? Why art?
Art has a way of giving a facelift to its surroundings. When placed with intention, it invites visual variety and serves to elevate even the most monotonous of spaces. Paired with keen contrast to the walls and furniture around, it can fetch an office its own identity and unique character.
For those marooned by long hours behind the desk, art can be like an alluring portal. Ever ready to rob them of their surroundings and toss them into much needed distraction, inspiration, contemplation, or even fantasy.
Good art can uplift the mood and help recharge the think-tank. This isn’t just speculation, there is enough science to back it up. A study conducted by The University of Exeter showed that people who worked in offices sporting art, were 15% more productive and had fewer complaints than those working out of a cookie-cutter corporate environment.
You can use art around the office to preserve and promote the ethos of your company. Artwork that narrates your company’s story can leave a lasting impression on your clients and stakeholders, the moment they step foot into your office space. As for your employees, it can help them internalise your organisation’s style, values and philosophy–helping unify the workplace and fuel team effort.
So, what kind of art?
Posters with inspiring text in bold fonts are the staple of artwork at the office. And why not? They do serve their purpose of helping office-goers kick into fifth gear every now and then. But to limit office space art to only inspirational posters would be a massive missed opportunity.
Beyond posters, artwork can come as paintings or quality prints of iconic works, or select photography, all serving as open windows to realms awaiting interpretation and discovery. There are also mixed media pieces that combine several types of art, cultivating a unique and inspiring atmosphere.
And ofcourse, art–as a matter of fact–is not solely limited to that which embraces a wall. Sculptures, vases, decorative pieces, lampshades and other standing lighting can all serve to set the right mood and add flavour to your office space, helping build its own individual identity.
But what’s the right art for me?
Before the art itself comes the colour of the walls, the ceiling, and the furniture. This is because colour can have a profound effect on the overall aesthetic of your office space. Studies have shown that colour can influence our response to a room up to a notable 60%.
Bright colours such as orange and yellow add energy and promote thinking, whereas cooler colours such purple and blue invite a sense of calm–enhancing productivity and focus. Whites and browns, on the other hand, lend stability and approachability to a workplace.
The choice of the art pieces that go in your office should stem from not only your business’s identity, but also from your own values and beliefs. Each piece that you choose to place in your office space should speak to you on a personal level, while also complimenting your business ethic and philosophy.
People working in fields demanding creativity and innovation are likely to benefit from having abstract artwork or pop art around. Abstract pieces attempt to free the mind from restrictive and stereotypical thinking, while pop art revitalises the fatigued brain.
If your work is a bit more conservative or traditional by nature, you could instead go for art that nurtures professionalism and steadiness. Works by famous artists, landscapes romanticising the great outdoors, still-life pieces showcasing a love for simpler beauty, can all endow your office space with an air of sophistication.
Anything else?
Ultimately, what kind of art sits or hangs in your office space is your choice solely. If a certain art piece appeals to you or fits your mental image of how things need to look at work, you don’t have to second guess yourself. Feel free to experiment and refresh your office space as you please. In fact, bringing in new art pieces to replace old ones can brew new energy and perspective among those who work for you.
All you need to bear in mind while going office art shopping the next time, is that art is more than something just nice to look at that covers an empty space. As Henry David Thoreau once said: “It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see.”