Art has always been valued for its looks, but its effect goes further. In a workplace, art can influence how people feel, how well they work and how they see their employer. Several studies suggest that an office with art in it has a happier, more engaged workforce.
Productivity and wellbeing
Employers increasingly recognise that the design of a workspace affects people's physical and mental health, and with it their job satisfaction, stress and performance. Well-chosen, well-placed artwork makes a workplace more pleasant, and helps people feel relaxed, comfortable and inspired.
Art can also express a company's brand, culture and values to staff and visitors alike. Pieces that fit the company's ethos give people a sense of belonging.
What art does in a workplace
- It lifts the mood. A good selection of pictures in offices and shared areas brings energy to the place.
- It suits the room to its purpose. An inspiring piece in a meeting room encourages ideas and discussion. Colourful artwork in a break area gets people talking.
- It reflects the company's values. Art that fits the mission of the organisation helps create a shared identity, and is a daily reminder of what the company stands for.
- It eases stress. In a demanding job, a comfortable and attractive environment matters.
- It improves the space. Art adds depth and texture to a bland corporate interior, and turns a dull or empty corner into somewhere inviting.
The psychological effects
Stress and wellbeing
Looking at art is a positive distraction. It takes the mind off work pressures for a moment and helps to relieve anxiety.
Research suggests that people who have a say in the design and layout of their own workspace are happier and healthier, and one study found them up to 32% more productive.
Positive emotions
Art can calm or invigorate, depending on the subject and on the person looking at it. Either way it can lift people's mood, and they return to work refreshed.
Attitudes and perspectives
Art encourages people to think creatively and to look at problems from other angles. Work from a range of artists and traditions can foster understanding of different values and beliefs, and a more inclusive culture.
It also gets people talking. A picture gives colleagues who would not otherwise speak something to discuss, and that strengthens teams.
Productivity and creativity
Focus and engagement
A visually interesting workplace helps people keep up their concentration and energy through the day. Research by Dr Craig Knight indicates that art in the office can lower stress and promote wellbeing.
Innovation
Art stimulates creative thinking and starts the conversations that lead to new ideas. Forbes has written about its value in energising creativity and encouraging critical thinking.
Problem-solving
A study at the University of Exeter found that people working in spaces enriched with art and plants were 17% more productive than those in bare ones.
Art and workplace culture
A good company culture embraces diversity and builds a sense of community. A range of artwork that reflects the people who work there, and supports the company's brand, helps everyone feel part of a common effort.
Including art in workplace design does more than match the decor. It leads to conversation and more contact between colleagues.
The art a company chooses also affects how the public sees it. Thoughtful choices can show a commitment to local artists, or to sustainable and ethical practice.
Bringing art into your company
Many organisations, some with large corporate collections, already use art in their workplaces. You do not need a large budget to do the same.
- Rotate the display. Changing exhibitions keep the walls fresh, show the work of different artists and give staff something to learn about.
- Involve the staff. The research distinguishes between a lean office with bare walls, an enriched one with art, and an empowered one where people help to choose and arrange it. The empowered office did best. Let people have a say.
- Reflect your values. Choose work that says something about who you are as a company.
- Think about sustainability. Artwork made with eco-friendly materials, or on environmental themes, shows where the company stands.
- Frame it properly. Consistent, well-made frames make even inexpensive prints look considered and professional.
Conclusion
Art has real value in a workplace. It can reduce stress and energise creativity, and it makes a workplace more welcoming.
Well-chosen artwork can improve people's state of mind, so that they feel more comfortable and motivated. It also shows that an employer cares about the people who work there.
EasyFrame offers a wide range of made-to-measure frames, and with long experience we can advise on the perfect frame for your artwork, whether it is one picture or a whole office. Call us on 01234 856 501 or email sales@easyframe.co.uk. We are always happy to talk, whether or not you want to buy.