With so much in the news about post-pandemic office design geared for social distancing, and the overarching uncertainty regarding economic recovery for businesses large and small, it is important to consider the role artist and artwork can play in this discussion. Historically, artists and architects worked closely on public contruction-from Gothic Cathedrals to Beau-arts style museums. The modernist movement interrupted this trend with its penchant for clean lines and white walls. Gone were the cornices, murals, and grand entrances complete with sculptural programs of the past to be replaced with simplicity, poured cement, and monochromatic color.
While this may be the natural course of artistic progression-how many more Neo-classical references do we really need anyway-it is worth noting that as with their architectural and interior design counterparts, artists incomes have taken a hit during this economic downturn. Why not consider including artwork into newly designed spaces intended for social distancing? This can be done in a number of ways.
Art glass or resin wall dividers. We all know the role Plexiglas is playing in encouraging social distancing from grocery store checkouts to your favorite ice-cream counter. Why not play off this and include art glass or resin art walls into office design? Instead of clear glass or Plexiglass dividers, commission an artist to create art glass or resin art dividers.
