Workplace Benefits of Office Art

Office art can have a powerful impact on the morale and productivity of employees in the workplace. Art has the ability to evoke emotions and stimulate creativity, which can greatly benefit the work environment. The impact of office art on employee morale and productivity is a topic that has received increasing attention in recent years. Many companies are recognizing the positive benefits of incorporating art into the workplace, including improved employee well-being, increased creativity, and enhanced work environment.

Studies have shown that exposure to art can have a profound impact on mental health and well-being as a source of stress relief and relaxation. It has been shown that exposure to art can have a calming effect and help to reduce stress levels. This can be especially beneficial in a fast-paced work environment where employees are often under pressure to meet deadlines and perform at high levels. Dr Craig Knight, who has studied the psychology of working environments for 12 years at the University of Exeter, discussed in an interview with The Guardian research he conducted that found people who worked in an office enriched with art worked about 15% quicker and had fewer health complaints. This figure doubled for people who worked in spaces where they were involved in the selection of art and decor. However, Dr. Knight was emphatic that by art he doesn’t mean so-called “motivational posters”, which say things like “there is no I in team” or “whatever the problem, be part of the solution”, because these don’t work at all.

One way in which office art can have a positive impact on employee morale is through its ability to evoke emotions and stimulate creativity. Research has shown that exposure to art can improve cognitive function, increase creativity, and enhance problem-solving skills. These benefits can have a direct impact on employee productivity and performance, as employees who are feeling inspired and motivated are more likely to be engaged and productive at work.

Office art can be a conversation starter and help to break down barriers among employees. According to a 2014 Harvard Study, there may be a number of positive impacts on employees and other affiliates when art is present in the workplace, including interpersonal learning and mission-related content learning. The findings suggested that art connected to the organization’s mission, rotating exhibitions and diverse collections are valued by workplace viewers. It also highlighted the importance of the aesthetic environment in the workplace and is one of the first to examine artworks in the work setting. Art can serve as a common ground for employees from diverse backgrounds, helping to promote cross-cultural understanding and improve communication. This can be particularly important in companies where employees come from diverse backgrounds and cultures.

Dr. Greg Metz, a researcher at University of Texas at Dallas, found in a recent survey that after installation of art in their workplace, 75% of employees had new things to discuss and formed new lines of communication between employees that hadn’t existed before. Also, an interest in art increased over time among workers and the presence of it brought creative stimulation to projects. However, his research also revealed that artwork habituates after six months. Once employees have become accustomed to seeing a piece of art, Dr. Metz says, “Nobody sees it. It just becomes a blind spot.” Dr. Metz recommends rotating artwork every six months to keep the atmosphere from stagnating,

Interesting photographs of nature and places with cultural significance can also have mental health benefits for employees. A report commissioned by Brookfield Properties, a leading global developer and manager of corporate real estate, found that nearly 70% of employees agreed that having interesting and visually attractive art in the workplace contributed to their well-being, and that there was a 62% increase in people who felt inspired at work after office art was introduced. The report states, "The message is clear. If you want to have a workforce who feels engaged and inspired by their jobs, a key step is to redraw the office, making space for art and cultural wellness."

In addition to its impact on mental health, office art can also be used to promote a sense of unity and collaboration among employees. This can help to foster a positive work culture and create a sense of community among employees, which can lead to improved teamwork and a more harmonious work environment. Office art can also be used to communicate the values and culture of a company. By carefully selecting the artwork that is displayed in the workplace, companies can communicate their values and mission to employees, visitors, and clients, which can help to reinforce the company culture and promote a sense of pride and commitment among employees.

Miami University of Ohio President Gregory P. Crawford discussed in an August 2022 interview with Forbes the ways visual art can elevate an individual’s well-being, strengthen the organization's culture and enhance the quality of the larger community. Crawford recommended that businesses introduce art that is meaningful to the history and values of the organization to bolster a sense of community in the workplace culture. He also suggested that the selection of office art can inform and inspire viewers about such topics as the company’s history, founders, locations, facilities and even products and services.

In conclusion, the positive benefits of office art for employee morale and productivity are numerous and well-documented. Exposure to art can have a profound impact on mental health and well-being, and can serve as a source of inspiration and motivation for employees. Additionally, office art can be used to promote a sense of unity and collaboration, communicate company values, and create a positive and uplifting work environment.

Browse our gallery of office art photography inspired by natures, culture, and history -- carefully curated from around the world to inspire and delight your colleagues, guests, and clients. Our History & Heritage collection celebrates ancient (and not-so-ancient) accomplishments of people and civilizations who laid the groundwork for our world today. The Magnificent Beasts Collection presents stunning animals found in their wild, natural habitats who embody ideals and characteristics like strength, tenacity, teamwork, and grace. Our Enchanted Lands Collection again draws inspiration from nature, focused on incredible landscapes and the gifts that our planet shares to nurture and center our minds and bodies. Finally, the Sand & Sea Collection offers playful and relaxing photographs of rocks, beaches, sunsets, and sea creatures above and below the wavetops. We believe our collections offer bold pieces for various office environments to improve employee morale, increase creativity, and enhance productivity.