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Adding Art to Business Spaces

Larger companies have learned that collecting art adds something special to its overall corporate image. An art collection may include art on display in waiting, or general areas. Larger collections may focus on education programs for the employees of the company and partnerships with area museums or art spaces.

Unfortunately the kind of art programs and collections afforded by multi-billion dollar companies, are not usually within reach for companies without an extensive art budget, if it's even considered at all. However, if you are ready to use some creative thinking you can create an art program, add new art to your workspace, and increase employee satisfaction. If you're interested, keep reading and get started with Artistic Lifestyling at work.

As business owners, one of the first design decisions we make are for our business cards. They are your client's very first impression of your company. A well-designed card should convey both a text message and a feeling. People really do pick up and collect business cards they are attracted to - even if they don't need the services right away. If you take the time to have the card designed by a true artist, chances are you will be pleasantly surprised by the results.

I stumbled on what I consider to be a couple of great business card design companies owned by Daniel Will-Harris http://www.will-harris.com/design/bizcards2.htm and Victoria Arico at http://www.lookslikejoy.com/BusinessCards.html. I prefer designers rather than mass-produced templates for many reasons, but primarily because I don't want to see my 'logo' on someone else's card. The image conveyed on your business cards, should match your work environment in terms of appearance and energy. A modest art program at work can help to unify your corporate image for your clients and employees.

Even if your company already has an art collection, it often doesn't include art for personal workspaces. People spend so much time at work that it is important to encourage them to create a sense of individuality with personal art that appeals to them. Shared or open spaces might be perfect for a small water feature to help keep competing noises down. It's best not to be too extreme in choices of art on these walls, but a couple of modest pieces, a collection of small art postcards or even a small sculpture can bring instant interest to a workspace. Because selecting art can be a bit tricky, guidelines or policies created for the company help people keep their art selections appropriate for the workspace.

If you are lucky enough to have room in your workplace for public art, you can use the space for rotating art shows by artists from across the country. You can also commission murals, sculpture or faux finishes to add creative and artistic touches to your space. Remember there is no need to over do it at work, but do consider the feeling you want to express. If you are in a hectic work environment choose art that makes you feel instantly calm in the midst of chaos.

There are so many ways to artistically enhance your workspace. Hold some after-hours art classes or host an exhibit that features art created by your employees. It's a modest investment that gives back over and over again, and also helps support local arts in your community. Use your imagination and put together a great arts program at work that will encourage employee creativity, interest in your company, and add to your overall company image.

Lise Richards is an Artistic Lifestylist and owner of The Creativity Center, Inc and Red Door Gallery. Her Artistic Lifestyling program helps all people live more creatively in artistically designed spaces. Visit the company online at www.centerofcreativity.com; [email protected]