Charles Blackman - 'Tea Break'

…Workplace

Winter – and the end of the financial year – are officially here. As the skies thin into a steely grey, the time is ripe to warm your workplace with some inspiring art. 

Through the federal government’s Instant Asset Write Off Scheme, eligible businesses can claim immediate deductions on assets, like art, that are first installed at their premises between July 1st 2023 and June 30th 2024. For businesses with a turnover of less than $10 million, art up to the value of $20,000 is up for deduction. 

For those eligible, it’s a winning opportunity to invite art into the workplace — turning your nine to five into a space that inspires, where visitors feel at ease and invigorated. But what art suits what room? Should a nude go in the kitchenette, a still life in the waiting room? Here, on the eve of EOFY, are some rules of thumb to keep in mind.

John Olsen - 'Laughing Frog'

…Boardroom  

Boardrooms need not be boring. Spaces for deliberation, learning and collaboration, they are the physical and psychic centres of workplaces. The tone you set here can permeate through the entire workday. 

With this in mind, choose art that feels connected to your employees and purpose. Talking pieces are a good idea, as are eye-catchers — something big, bold or emblazoned with a story. You want to curate a space that feels simultaneously warm, inviting and intriguing. 

Our tip: You don’t want to distract from important meetings. Seek work that’s bold without being overbearing. 

Rebecca Parker - 'The Milky Way'

Lin Onus - 'Pitoa Garkman (Blue Frogs)'

…Kitchenettes

When it comes to displaying art in workplaces, the kitchen is too often neglected. This doesn’t necessarily, however, mean that you should reorientate your most serious pieces to the kitchen. Rather, in all its happy chaos, tea breaks and post weekend catch-ups, the kitchen lends itself best to levity. 

Whether humorous, pretty or joyful, art in the kitchen can make mornings easier. It injects warmth and European charm into the most daunting deadlines. Whatever your taste, opt for pieces that complement not overwhelm. Monday mornings are frantic enough. 

Our tip: Give your mind a massage with David Aspden ‘Channels no.1’. While steeping your tea bag consider, are those countries or continents? 

David Aspden - 'Channels No 1'

Jasper Knight - 'Hornby'

…Home Offices

More and more people are opting to work from home. We’ve set up conference calls at dining room tables and converted storage spaces into workplaces. What remains critical however, is building mental and physical barriers between working from and being at home. 

One way to observe this boundary, is to invest in a home office that feels aesthetically separate from the rest of your home. By populating it with its own selection of art, you can curate a space that is not only practical, but inspiring. 

Works that suit the home office best are typically quirkier, more surprising and intellectually rich. They’re generally not risque, but can take aesthetic risks. The aim here is to maintain morale, motivate and communicate what makes you and your work worthy. Plus, they can really enhance the Zoom experience. 

Rene Nelson - 'Minyma Kutjara'

Erica Tandori - 'Cloud Chasing'

We’re experts in art not tax. Consult your accountant to see whether you’re eligible for tax-deductible art.