Menu
19/12/2001
Study shows office art can promote productivity
A recent study has revealed that art in the office could lead to a better working culture, more relaxed staff, and improved productivity.
According to research commissioned by printer manufacturer Lexmark, art in the office can promote creativity, relax stressed workers and increase business productivity, adding to a company’s success. Whether it’s classic depictions of serenity or abstract lines of vivid colour, the paintings lining office walls are more than just decoration.
According to the author of the report, psychologist Dr Aric Sigman, the choice of art can affect the way staff operate and how prospective customers perceive the business. It reveals that art is a significant part of office ‘make-up’, helping to generate an atmosphere and giving an organisation and its workforce a personality.
The study, which examined emotional responses to popular paintings, suggests art that is incompatible with the functions of its surroundings, can impact on job satisfaction, absenteeism, productivity and working relationships.
Art by Munch was found to be the most intimidating and depressing, while Picasso raised aggression levels. In comparison, Klimt’s ‘The Kiss’ promoted feelings of happiness and inspiration, and was voted as a favourite stress reliever for females.
Certain industries carried common themes. For example, abstract and ‘inoffensive’ contemporary art is favoured by the legal sector, promoting a non-distracting environment that tends to think of itself as modern and cutting edge.
In contrast, the media sector boasts pop posters, branding and advertisements, blatantly celebrating the modern popular culture. Paintings by art school graduates and up and coming contemporary artists are also popular.
Surprisingly, the design industry tends to be more practical when lining its walls, preferring, calendars, plans and own designs to the exhibition of another person’s works. These features make for a stern working environment, promoting more a feeling of duty than calmness or happiness.
Launching the new stress-relieving modern art macro-site, stressed office workers taking a break could visit www.print-art.com to view the paintings and complete a stress survey
Dr Sigman concluded that the study reinforced the notion of ‘sick building syndrome’, whereby corporate colours, lighting and design can carry strong impressions about an organisation and can even affect the wellbeing, morale and efficiency of office workers.
He said: “Much of the effect of art (and décor) in the office is likely to operate at a subliminal but highly influential level. Senior managers and junior members of staff should both take heed, as the secret of a company and individual success is ‘written’ on the wall.” (SP)
According to research commissioned by printer manufacturer Lexmark, art in the office can promote creativity, relax stressed workers and increase business productivity, adding to a company’s success. Whether it’s classic depictions of serenity or abstract lines of vivid colour, the paintings lining office walls are more than just decoration.
According to the author of the report, psychologist Dr Aric Sigman, the choice of art can affect the way staff operate and how prospective customers perceive the business. It reveals that art is a significant part of office ‘make-up’, helping to generate an atmosphere and giving an organisation and its workforce a personality.
The study, which examined emotional responses to popular paintings, suggests art that is incompatible with the functions of its surroundings, can impact on job satisfaction, absenteeism, productivity and working relationships.
Art by Munch was found to be the most intimidating and depressing, while Picasso raised aggression levels. In comparison, Klimt’s ‘The Kiss’ promoted feelings of happiness and inspiration, and was voted as a favourite stress reliever for females.
Certain industries carried common themes. For example, abstract and ‘inoffensive’ contemporary art is favoured by the legal sector, promoting a non-distracting environment that tends to think of itself as modern and cutting edge.
In contrast, the media sector boasts pop posters, branding and advertisements, blatantly celebrating the modern popular culture. Paintings by art school graduates and up and coming contemporary artists are also popular.
Surprisingly, the design industry tends to be more practical when lining its walls, preferring, calendars, plans and own designs to the exhibition of another person’s works. These features make for a stern working environment, promoting more a feeling of duty than calmness or happiness.
Launching the new stress-relieving modern art macro-site, stressed office workers taking a break could visit www.print-art.com to view the paintings and complete a stress survey
Dr Sigman concluded that the study reinforced the notion of ‘sick building syndrome’, whereby corporate colours, lighting and design can carry strong impressions about an organisation and can even affect the wellbeing, morale and efficiency of office workers.
He said: “Much of the effect of art (and décor) in the office is likely to operate at a subliminal but highly influential level. Senior managers and junior members of staff should both take heed, as the secret of a company and individual success is ‘written’ on the wall.” (SP)
Related Northern Ireland Business News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
13 August 2015
Belfast Carnival Village To Transform Ormeau Park
Belfast Carnival Village will transform an area in Ormeau Park in June 2016 into a colourful carnival village, a theatrical set with structures that depict Belfast landmarks such as H&W Cranes and the Albert Clock.
Belfast Carnival Village To Transform Ormeau Park
Belfast Carnival Village will transform an area in Ormeau Park in June 2016 into a colourful carnival village, a theatrical set with structures that depict Belfast landmarks such as H&W Cranes and the Albert Clock.
20 May 2015
New Visitor Guide And Public Art Adventure Trail Launches
A new visitor guide and a public art adventure trail have been launched in Newcastle, County Down.
New Visitor Guide And Public Art Adventure Trail Launches
A new visitor guide and a public art adventure trail have been launched in Newcastle, County Down.
14 March 2003
London office opened to promote Ireland's tourism potential
Tourism Ireland has opened new offices in London’s Wigmore Street, off Oxford Street, to further promote Northern Ireland as a destination for Great Britain's tourists.
London office opened to promote Ireland's tourism potential
Tourism Ireland has opened new offices in London’s Wigmore Street, off Oxford Street, to further promote Northern Ireland as a destination for Great Britain's tourists.
24 October 2001
Survey finds half the working population are stressed out
More than half of the UK’s working population are stressed at work, a survey conducted by a leading time management company has revealed. The survey, which aims to raise awareness of how to cope with stress, was published on the eve of National Stress Awareness Day, which takes place on Thursday November 1.
Survey finds half the working population are stressed out
More than half of the UK’s working population are stressed at work, a survey conducted by a leading time management company has revealed. The survey, which aims to raise awareness of how to cope with stress, was published on the eve of National Stress Awareness Day, which takes place on Thursday November 1.
11 August 2004
£80m contract equips RAF with state-of-the-art missiles
The RAF is set to get one of the world's most advanced medium range air-to-air missiles under a multi-million pound contract signed by the MoD. The £80 million contract, awarded to Raytheon Missile Systems, will see the installation of the Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) onto the RAF's Air Defence aircraft.
£80m contract equips RAF with state-of-the-art missiles
The RAF is set to get one of the world's most advanced medium range air-to-air missiles under a multi-million pound contract signed by the MoD. The £80 million contract, awarded to Raytheon Missile Systems, will see the installation of the Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) onto the RAF's Air Defence aircraft.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
