How Businesses Benefit from Supporting Art in Unusual Spaces
By Jo Phillips
Art pieces can be elevated and complemented by the setting they’re in. An unconventional venue can transform our perception, enhancing how we experience creativity. From converted warehouses to bustling train stations, these unexpected settings for artistic expression can be particularly captivating.
By championing these projects, businesses can benefit. Here’s how.
Enhancing Community Engagement Through Art
Supporting art installations in non-traditional venues can build a sense of community and inclusivity. Projects like the Blackpool Heritage Action Zone, which has revitalised urban areas by integrating art into public spaces, is an excellent example. By commissioning murals, sculptures, and interactive exhibitions, businesses can create focal points for local engagement.
Art in locations such as these encourages participation from residents and the wider community. It has the potential to help them form a deeper connection with where they’re from and the location’s heritage. For businesses, this builds a reputation for supporting local culture.
Driving economic growth
In addition to promoting community engagement, these artistic pieces can have a positive impact on local economies. A report by Arts Council England revealed that arts and culture contribute £10.6 billion to the UK economy. Investing in this attracts visitors and residents, contributing to economic regeneration.
It also, significantly, attracts businesses. By investing, companies often benefit from increased local patronage and partnerships.
Promoting sustainability and innovation
Art projects often lead the way in sustainability and innovation. For example, back in 2019, UK artist David Mach created sculptural buildings made from shipping containers. This showcased how art and environmental consciousness can intersect. It also serves as a reminder that using something like shipping containers for art projects can be portable and versatile.
Supporting such initiatives allows businesses to show their commitment to reducing waste and exploring innovative uses for materials. Investing in eco-friendly art means businesses can show they are in keeping with global sustainability goals too, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers and stakeholders.
Strengthening brand identity
Teaming up with artists to promote artistic initiatives in unusual settings can also significantly enhance a company’s image.
It’s an opportunity to attract diverse audiences. The association with cultural enrichment can create a sense of trust, positioning the brand as forward-thinking and socially responsible.
Enhancing employee wellbeing
Integrating art into unconventional workspaces can boost employee morale and creativity. It can make the workplace a more vibrant, engaging environment, impacting productivity and well-being.
Incorporating art in office spaces or hosting creative workshops in unusual settings allows employees to think differently and collaborate more effectively. For businesses, this translates into a more dynamic workforce and reduced turnover rates.
If you’re a business owner, it’s worth considering the wider impact that investing in or contributing to art projects in your area can have on your enterprise, your people, and the wider community.
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