A work of art, it can actually boost productivity, lower stress and increase wellbeing according to a recent article citing new research…

Art is increasingly being seen as a way of incorporating an organisation’s branding into their office design. It can help tell the story of who they are, what they do and what they value. Business owners are beginning to understand that displaying artwork in the workplace does more than make the office more aesthetically pleasing or impress visitors; it can actually increase employee efficiency, productivity, and creativity. The following are some of the merits of displaying artwork in the office.

Art inspires and unlocks creative potential. When people are faced with an impressive painting or photograph, they often feel inspired by the work. This is why motivational posters often include photographs of magnificent sunsets, towering trees and mountains, or feats of athleticism. The inspiration that one feels upon looking at art unlocks creative potential, helping to generate innovative ideas. Innovative ideas in turn lead to new business practices and promotional campaigns, which ultimately create economic growth.

Art helps connect with clients. Many companies rely on specific types of people or socioeconomic groups for the majority of their business. Lawyers, for example, have specialised fields that cater to specific demographics and corporate management. By hanging photographs in the office or waiting area, they can make a client feel comfortable and even connect with them on an emotional level.

Art affects the atmosphere of a room. Romantic artwork with pastoral scenes of nature tends to evoke feelings of peace or content in most viewers. A company that hangs photographs and paintings of peaceful, natural settings will help their employees to feel happy and content, and it will create a general sense of calm in the office. Similarly, a piece of artwork can add personality to a space in or around the office, making it a gathering place for employees during breaks.

Art improves employee experiences. One survey of employees working in offices with artwork showed that 83 percent of the employees felt that artwork was important in the work environment. Of those employees, 73 percent also said that their perceptions of their workplace and their work experiences would change if the art were removed. By stimulating ideas, promoting feelings of calm, and giving employees something beautiful to look at where they spend the majority of their day, art can truly make a huge difference in employee satisfaction, productivity, and wellbeing.

Art can be used to promote your brand. There are subtle ways to increase your brand’s importance, credibility, and authority in the eyes of customers. Images of your company throughout the years, for example, often evoke a slight feeling of nostalgia in viewers, as well as emphasize the longevity of your company.

As business competition continues to heat up across nearly all markets, business owners and managers are looking for new ways to gain competitive advantages. While artwork is nothing new, its positive effects on employee productivity, satisfaction, and morale can’t be ignored. Coupled with the strategic branding opportunities it presents, artwork is poised to appear on line items of company budgets in 2016 and beyond – and for good reason.