You need Artwork in your Office

This post is for someone who has never considered bringing art into their workplace.

Not having anything in an office is a gross oversight. A bare artless office is truly dreadful and shows a complete disregard for anyone working there. Some pawn it off as “minimalist” however, minimalism doesn’t imply soullessness. Even if it is an open floor plan or a meeting room, the absence of art will surely be felt - not in a good way. (see below)

Art is not a need, but having it in the first place says a lot.

If you work at a desk, you have the opportunity to make working more pleasurable with your surroundings. You spend considerable time there, and others come to meet with you. Your office is a nexus from where you influence the world.

The impact of your displayed art varies by personality. It is important to consciously recognize that it does have an impact. You may not get compliments on your art, but it does not mean it is ineffectual. Artwork imposes an emotional tone to anyone seeing it, and it can be switched out and staged for different occasions.

The decor is sophisticated and relaxed. The large bottle prints feel cozy and inviting.

For instance, a large desk with two symmetrical stone gargoyle-like dog figurines on either end, have a potent effect on your visitors—one that’s very different from slender candlestick sculptures… What difference do you feel? Let me know your impressions down in the comments below.

When you arrive at that point in your career that you have your own office—one where you can close the door and leave for the day, it makes a huge difference in your life! You have your own private thinking space surrounded by things that give you comfort, crystal focus or set the stage for quality.

As intellectual creatures, there are many pauses in our activities where we reflect. Our gaze usually drifts off into space. You know, “that zone”. Good art, without exception, is made in “that zone”.

Artists of the TV show Archer take the time to faithfully decorate the boss’s office.

The fictional mid-century modern intelligence office above exudes power. The paintings expand the otherwise stuffy wooden room beyond the wall. The sculptures on the credenza in the back are worldly and coveted. Especially the cobalt painted porcelain (barely seen on the right).

Having sculpture or painting in your office raises the gravitas of your presence and your mission in the world. It shows you are thinking about greater things and discern higher quality. You have a connection with nature, humanity, and higher realms. Even if nobody ever visits, the art must have strong meaning just for you.

The art in this office does not overpower, but supports the work that goes on within it.

Your art shouldn’t distract you from your needs. Needless to say, but dare I say it, there’s a lot going on and the artwork shouldn’t be impeding upon daily tasks. Rather it assists you because when you look at it, you feel a type of way that inspires you or calms you. Serving as the conduit to a still place where the answers can just come. Or it makes you laugh, because your job is very serious, and something’s gotta give to lighten the mood sometimes. A lot of people like to listen to music when working, as you know, the type of musical vibe matters a lot. So does sculpture or painting.

If you work in an office, how does it reflect upon you?