Why You Should Use Abstract Office Wall Murals
Enhancing the Office Environment with Abstract Wall Murals
By: Ahroon Y
August 26, 2024
Wall murals have been a popular art form for millennia, from early Paleolithic cave drawings to the majestic works of Renaissance artists. In the 21st century, more and more wallpaper murals are being seen in office settings. Employers looking for a way to make spaces more inviting, personable and brand-appropriate have discovered the power of wall murals as corporate office decor — and they work great in home offices, too.
There are many wall mural styles that company designers can turn to. Abstract murals, though, are gaining popularity among employees and their workers. Whether as a background wall or a focal point, an abstract mural is more than just a decoration. They can be a way to help people feel less stressed and think differently. The experts at Murals Your Way have what you need to know about this office wallpaper trend and why an abstract mural may be the right choice for your company.
What is Abstract Art?
In an abstract mural, the artist uses patterns, colors, geometric shapes, forms and similar markings rather than painting or drawing based on “visual reality.” While an abstract mural may have real-life subject matter, the artist does not attempt to portray the subject realistically, instead simplifying, stylizing or conceptualizing it. Sometimes, abstract art may not have a distinct subject at all; rather, it may simply be a series of patterns and shapes that arouse certain emotions and ideas. This gives it a certain independence or disconnect from the surrounding world.
Considered a form of “non-objective art,” abstract art originated in late 19th-century Europe as a backlash to the rigidity of traditional Western art and the desire to visually capture ongoing changes in the world. Artists from impressionism, romanticism and expressionism all played a role in the development of abstract art, which generally has a contemporary vibe.
How Abstract Art Murals Help Your Office
The visual appeal of an abstract office mural is just one of the many reasons to get one for your company or home office. Studies have consistently shown that business wall art can improve employee attitudes, boost productivity and emphasize corporate branding. However, there are two science-based ways that corporate abstract murals go beyond these general advantages. Here are some of the benefits of abstract murals in office environments.
1. Reducing Anxiety and Stress
With constant tight deadlines, big projects, and shifting needs, it’s not surprising that busy employees can feel high-strung at times. According to the American Institute of Stress, a staggering 83% of employees experience work-related stress. This can lead to a major decrease in productivity, both from getting less done while at work and missing time due to stress-induced illness.
Adding an abstract art mural is a way to create a less stressful environment. Studies have found that viewing any sort of artwork can lower stress, and abstract art is particularly effective. This is because when someone is creating or looking at abstract art, the brain must use pathways related to solving problems and regulating emotions to “decode” the image. Doing so decreases anxiety and stress levels so workers are happier and healthier.
2.Spur Creative Thinking
We regularly hear companies saying they want employees to think outside the box. Putting classic representational art up in your office though, could have the opposite effect. ZME Science notes a study where researchers found that being around representational art leads to the brain having a relatively limited reach in time and space. In other words, you’re more likely to see things as they are and not go beyond that.
Conversely, abstract art can activate the type of thinking you’re looking for. The same study determined that abstract art causes a phenomenon known as “psychological distance.” This is when someone doesn’t just see the artwork conceptually — they start seeing the world around them more conceptually, too. Abstract art also tends to cause people to feel more “far away” and mentally link themselves with the future rather than the present.
The first instinct might be to think this is bad; after all, you want employees to be connected to your work, right? But this can have a powerful positive impact on your company. It encourages people to think creatively and go beyond what’s on the page or the screen. This leads to fresh ideas that are the catalyst for future breakthroughs. As put by Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, being around abstract art “frees our brain from the dominance of reality,” allowing it to explore new avenues of thinking and emotion.
The Best Abstract Office Murals
Once you’ve decided to get an abstract wall mural, you’ll need to choose a design. With so many options, which mural is best for an office setting? Here are a few ideas based on the type of business you operate and the atmosphere you are trying to achieve.
For a more tranquil, relaxing office environment, consider a mural depicting abstract flowers, waterways or landscapes, such as the Dark Blue Splashes Panoramic Wall Mural.
Want to add more energy while keeping stress levels low? Get the Blocks in a Row Mural Wallpaper or another abstract mural that emphasizes bright colors and action.
If you prefer a modern urban vibe that will attract younger workers and clients, an abstract graffiti mural like our Cool Blue Cartoon Graffiti Pattern Wallpaper will add contemporary appeal.
If you’re looking for more inspiration, shop our full collections of abstract murals, office murals and home office murals. You can also call Murals Your Way at 888.558.0279 to chat with an Account Manager. Each mural is made in the U.S. fully customizable to give your office the right look and atmosphere.