Art has become a pivotal component for defining the identity of a business and elevating the overall environment of a workspace or commercial property. But if you’ve been tasked with the job of acquiring art for your organization or workplace, you might feel a little overwhelmed. As corporate art consultants, it’s our job to help clients clarify their goals for acquiring art and guide them through the discovery process to select the right art to meet their organization’s needs.
In this article, we’ll review some of the most common goals businesses have when incorporating art into their properties. Then we’ll go over some art materials (or media) that can be used to accomplish these common goals. Whether you want art to inspire innovation at your workplace, tell your organization’s story, or create a space for workers to recharge, this article will provide some language and basic points of reference as you begin your search.
The Role of Art in Corporate Spaces
Art in corporate environments can influence the mood and productivity of employees, make a strong impression on clients, and communicate the company’s values. As such, the choice of artwork should be a strategic decision aligned with business objectives. Before you can begin an effective search for art, it’s important to clarify those objectives with all stakeholders. If you’re unsure where to begin, we’ve compiled a list of goals companies often have when acquiring art. Take a look and see if any apply to you.
Common Goals for Corporate Art
Some of the most common goals companies have when acquiring art include the following.
- To inspire innovation and creativity.
- To reinforce a sense of purpose and community.
- To carve out an area where workers can reflect and recharge.
Very often, companies want art to achieve more than one goal listed above. For example, they might want to inspire innovation and creativity while reinforcing a connection to the local community. It’s our job to ensure they get an art package that’s carefully curated to meet all their needs. “I can’t think of an art package we’ve put together for our clients that wasn’t a mix of different media,” says Art + Artisans Creative Director Inda Hahn who provides the direction for each of our art consultants in their individual efforts. Below are some examples of artwork from our past projects that were used to accomplish these common art goals.
Art To Inspire Innovation and Creativity
Bold abstract art with dynamic brushstrokes evokes energy and movement at Union on 24th in Austin, Texas. Art consulting by Art + Artisans.
For organizations that want to inspire innovation and creativity, bold abstract artwork with dynamic brushstrokes is a good choice. “These elements indicate energy and motion which stimulate creativity,” says Hahn. Mixed media with unexpected textures or layers engage curiosity and imagination. Street art or expressive figurative work evokes strong emotions and engagement. And large murals, including mosaic murals, transform spaces into visually stimulating environments that spark new ways of thinking.
Energy and movement stimulate creativity. Look for bold abstracts with dynamic brushstrokes.
Mixed media with unexpected textures or layers engage curiosity and imagination.
Street art or expressive figurative work evoke strong emotions and engagement.
Expressive figurative work with a bold, street art aesthetic provides inspiration inside this office gym at T3 Eastside in Austin. Art consulting by Art + Artisans.
Large murals transform spaces into visually stimulating environments.
A corporate services firm in Dallas utilizes murals throughout the office to spotlight company innovation. This mural depicts a theme of discovery while promoting a company-wide wellness initiative. Art consulting by Art + Artisans.
Reinforcing a Sense of Purpose with Art
A feature mural in the Houston law offices of Thompson Coe echoes the firm’s commitment to place and culture by bringing Texas symbolism into the interiors. Art consulting by Art + Artisans.
Companies that want to reinforce a sense of purpose for workers can do so through art that reflects their organizational mission, history or values. Art can simplify complex mission statements with compelling imagery. Corporate values and key milestones in an organization’s history can be revealed through visuals that remind viewers of the bigger picture. Art that represents a connection to community evokes a sense of belonging and purpose.
Art can simplify complex mission statements with compelling imagery.
Art can represent key milestones in an organization’s history.
Art that represents a connection to community evokes a sense of belonging and purpose for the viewer.
Creating a Space for Workers to Reflect and Recharge
Art that features calming colors and serene landscapes are known to reduce stress and promote a peaceful atmosphere. To create a space that invokes warmth and relaxation, companies can incorporate art with soft textures and organic forms such as fiber or textile art. Abstract, minimal work with soft gradients in gentle colors transitions calm the eye. The fluidity and transparency of watercolors or ink wash paintings evoke a sense of peace. Weathered surfaces, such as driftwood or other worn materials, as well as art made with ceramic, clay or porcelain, can feel gentle and grounding. Brushed aluminum is a neutral, serene grey with a subtle texture that incorporates well with other calming elements like weathered wood.
Soft textures and organic forms create warmth and relaxation.
Minimalist abstracts with gentle color transitions in soft gradients calm the eye.
TIAA employees art walk at their new headquarters in Frisco, Texas. Art consulting by Art + Artisans.
Ceramic, clay or porcelain can feel gentle or grounding.
Brushed aluminum is neutral and serene with a subtle texture that incorporates well with other calming elements like weathered wood.
Brushed aluminum art installation behind reception in the lobby of The Independent in Austin, Texas. Art consulting by Art + Artisans.
Expert Insights: Choosing the Right Art
Choosing the right art for your company requires a nuanced understanding of both art and your organization’s unique needs. Here are some expert insights to guide your selection process:
- Understand Your Space: Consider the architectural features and existing design elements of your space. Art should complement and enhance these aspects, not compete with them.
- Define Your Objectives: Be clear about what you want to achieve with the art. Whether it’s to inspire, relax, or impress, having a clear objective will guide your selection process.
- Consult with Professionals: Partnering with an art consultant can provide invaluable insights and access to a wider range of artworks. Their expertise can help you navigate the art market and find pieces that align with your goals and budget.
- Consider the Audience: Think about who will be interacting with the art. This includes employees, clients, and visitors. The art should resonate with and be appropriate for your audience.
- Think Long-Term: While trends come and go, art is a long-term investment. Choose pieces that you believe will hold their value and continue to resonate over time.
Conclusion: Your Partner in Corporate Art Consulting
We hope this article has provided you with a starting point for your art selection process. If you’re ready to elevate your corporate space with art that inspires, soothes, or makes a statement, we invite you contact us. Let’s create an environment that not only meets but exceeds your expectations.
Learn More About the Right Art to Accomplish Your Organizational Goals
- How to Select Artwork for Commercial Property [Art + Artisans]
- The Psychology Behind Wall Graphics: Leveraging Design in Office Spaces [Allegra]
- The Psychological Impact of Various Tile Styles [tiletoria]
- Can Art Inspire Creativity in the Workplace? [Creativity at Work]
