Photo credit : reynermedia Flicker
For as long as anyone can remember, businesses have always invested money in corporate art. In the beginning, this was more of an aesthetic consideration than anything else.
Large companies simply needed artwork to adorn the walls of their boardrooms and reception areas. This is something that has been traced back for hundreds of years with evidence that early banks during the Italian Renaissance were considered to be patrons of the arts with substantial art collections amongst their assets.
Over time, businesses began to view art not only as décor, but also something of a status symbol and began to actively build corporate art collections. It is estimated that in the 1990’s around 50% of Fortune 500 companies and an additional 2,000 companies across America and Europe were building corporate art collections.
Enhancing the Corporate Image
In many cases, corporate art collections are used as a way to enhance the image that is projected by the company. It is not uncommon for businesses to invest in buying pieces from local artists rather than seeking out masterpieces from the likes of Da Vinci and Dali! This is because it allows the business to place themselves in the role of patron of the arts and gives them the chance to increase their social responsibility ratings.
Not only will the company seek out publicity regarding their collection, but pieces will usually be displayed within the premises so that visitors can see it. When art is properly presented it can create a talking point which opens up a window of opportunity for the company to discuss their involvement in the arts thus further boosting the corporate image.
How Can Artists Capitalize on Corporate Art Collections?
One of the ways that artists can benefit from corporate art collections comes down to money. While more and more of the general population are feeling some form of financial strain which makes it unlikely that they will be able to afford luxury items like art, corporations still have the financial means to invest in it. There is also the additional bonus that when an artist has their work on display in a corporate location there is more chance of them gaining exposure to a wealthier group of potential buyers.
This leads to the question of how to ensure that your art gets noticed by these corporate collectors. In many cases, interior designers and even PR people have a great deal of influence over what is chosen to adorn the walls of any corporate headquarters. Keep in mind that the main goal for the business is to project a certain image. It is a good idea to look at businesses with a local base and see what their company values and ethos are. If you can find one which you think is exemplified by your art then that is probably a good place to begin.
Connect with Interior Designers & PR Firms
It is important to try and make links with interior designers and PR firms as well as companies themselves. One way of doing so is by sending out postcard sized reproductions of some of your pieces, or perhaps by hosting a small exhibition and inviting selected people from these industries. If you do choose to do this then you will need to make sure that your work is properly presented which may mean investing in framing for your work. This needn’t be expensive, you can buy some good quality frames from art suppliers such as www.jacksonsart.com and complete the task yourself. You could potentially host a small exhibition at your studio, but always be sure to present it appropriately.
For those artists who do successfully manage to get noticed by corporate art collectors, the benefits can be fantastic. Not only do you have the chance to sell some of your work, but you will also be getting your art in front of a new audience who may not have seen it before. This can lead to more recognition of your artistic brand.
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Guest author: Alison Lansky loves blogging about the topics that are close to her heart. She is also the mother of two fantastic children who like to keep her on her toes!
I’d love to also meet you on Twitter, and on Google Plus, Pinterest, and join in the fun at Fine Art Tips Facebook Fan Page! Please checkout my art too LoriMcNee.com, or find me on Instagram lorimcneeartist. ~Lori 🙂
