Anish Kapoor’s ‘Cloud Gate’ sculpture is a defining contribution to Chicago’s urban landscape.  Familiarly known as “The Bean” because of its shape, it draws people in.  They stop.  They look around.  They take notice.  They interact. 

The sculpture was the result of a design competition and was completed in 2006.  It quickly became a placemaking destination not only because of its imposing size and weight – 33 by 66 by 42 feet and 100 tons - but because it invites the public to view the city, the sky and themselves in a distorted reflection on its magnificent, polished surface. 

Equally important is the approach through Millenium Park which was strategically designed to conceal the impact of the sculpture until ‘the big reveal’ at the top of the steps.  Solidly set at a higher level and open to sky and cityscape make this experience all the more impressive.  This ideal marriage of art and context is impactful in every way.

We can also look to interior spaces to provide examples of art in an intentional designed context.  Museums have always done this particularly well.  Art is often situated in a space that causes both art and space to resonate, stopping viewers, encouraging contemplation, a moment for reflection, taking in the scene. 

A wonderful example of this can be seen at the Museum of Modern Art in New York where the design team famously plumbed every detail of room 515 when hanging Monet’s ‘Water Lilies’, from the detailed determination of the colour of the walls, to experimenting with the precise angle at which Water Lilies was hung and the thoughtful and deliberate positioning of the visitors’ seating.  Because of this carefully considered context, the visitor stops, looks around, and interacts with the art and the room.  

The same results are achievable in commercial and private spaces.  Paying attention not only to the selection of an artwork but also the design of its context can encourage guests and clients to slow down, look around and stay awhile.  Art in a carefully designed context becomes sticky.  People stay - and they return. 

In a commercial space this increases opportunities to attract and engage with new clients.  Strategically and artfully designed space produces economic benefits.  In private spaces, art in a designed context adds impact, restfulness or perhaps an element of surprise, adding to the appreciation of the room and its host. 

The selection and placement of artwork and objects in a well-designed setting will demonstrate its usefulness and deliver results.