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14 / BUILDING DIALOGUE / December 2021 Reinvigorate the Workplace with a Curated Art Collection F or the last 18 months, the nature of the workplace has been undergoing a major re-definition. One thing remains constant: The office is still essential, but the role of the office is morphing into one of elevated human interac- tion and engagement. Hybrid work is the future, so the reinvigoration of space to draw people back in is a priority. The infusion of charm, authenticity and energy is paramount to interpersonal engagement. The introduction of original artwork can imbue these qualities naturally into a space. The value of a well-cu- rated officewide collection is transformational. And Colorado’s diverse artistic community means compa- nies don’t need to go far to find and support the local creative economy. Studies by organizations like the Business Commit- tee for the Arts consistently have found art is a great investment in brand, culture and, most critically, a company’s employees.Whilewemaynot beable tocal- culate a true return on investment on art in the work- place, it does have tangible benefits. • Art reduces stress, improves health and pro- ductivity. Health care is no stranger to the effective- ness of art to promote healing. From intimate water- color paintings in patients’ rooms to trained dance therapists or interactive installations, art is goodmedi- cine. Research shows that experiencing art stimulates faster healing for patients, helps reduce stress, and improves recruitment and retention rates among pro- viders. [Fenner, Patricia, Bruce Rumbold, Jean Rumbold and Priscilla Robinson. Evidence Brief: Is there compel- ling evidence for using the arts in health care? Deeble Institute forHealthPolicyResearch, June 19, 2021.]Why not askart todo someheavy lifting to supportwellness in theworkplace? • Art encourages socialization and empathetic communication. By interjecting dynamic artwork at natural assembly points (an openwork lounge, confer- ence room, outdoorpatio), youkick-start conversations. The Rev360 office building, located on Brighton Bou- levard in the River North Art District, commissioned work by local artists strategically placing pieces above workstations, café-style lounges and even in elevator cabs. Discussing an artist’s motivation or creative im- pulses inspires similar imaginative conversations, and sharing personal opinions encourages compassionate communication. When employees ruminate together over a painting in the break room, they are actively building bonds and a shared, common experience. • Art becomes a trusted colleague and close con- fidant. We typically meet art while briskly passing through a public square or on the occasional museum excursion. Our offices provide us with a unique oppor- tunity: to engage regularly and developmeaningful re- lationships with works of art. Lobbies and atriums are prime locations for protracted viewing, and it doesn’t take much. A comfortable bench placed intentional- ly encourages viewers to sit on their morning coffee break and reflect on the sculpture on the adjacentwall. Treat art, particularly in the workplace, like making a Kirsten Walsh Anderson Mason Dale Architects Design Always Frank Ooms Rev360 mixed-use office building with commissioned paintings by Romelle, curated by Nine Dot Arts.