News: Creativity and Innovation in the Workplace….starts with the teacups!

Bob Feltwell, Chief Executive of the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce received an unusual presentation gift from ArtsOptions at their monthly networking lunch on Monday 26 September - two cups and saucers, designed and handmade in Suffolk by ceramic artist Jonathan Keep.

“This simple idea is just one of the many ways contemporary British art and design, including work produced in Suffolk, can be brought into the workplace to inspire creativity and contribute to business objectives”, said Margo Ladell Pigott of ArtsOptions, after her talk at the luncheon entitled, “Beyond the logo….make art work for your business”.

Chamber Members using the conference rooms at Felaw Maltings, Ipswich can use the handmade cups to welcome visitors - a useful ‘ice-breaker’ at meetings which demonstrates a creative and stylish approach to their work and link with their own Suffolk identity.

ArtsOptions sources, sells and hires art from the Artist to the Client, bringing businesses closer to creativity and innovation. “A building with well-presented art looks attractive and welcoming, but,” Margo explained, “a business which incorporates art into its PR and HR programmes cares for its customers and staff, is distinguishable from its competitors, and looks confident, inspiring, creative, innovative - and successful!”

ArtsOptions’ Vision is “to help all businesses in the eastern region demonstrate their innovation, creativity and caring through the use of art - and artists - in the workplace”. During her presentation, Margo invited Chamber Members and associated businesses to be part of this Vision by booking an appointment for an “ArtsOptions Makeover” for their offices by the end of November 2005. Any businesses placing an order arising from their appointment will qualify for a 10% discount (on orders over £500).

Art work by ArtsOptions’ Portfolio Artists has been transforming the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce Conference Room, Ipswich since last December. Recently, Robert Kensit’s limited edition handmade linocut prints were on display. Currently on show are unique handmade silk screen and linocut prints by well-known Suffolk printmaker Dale Devereux Barker.

With Christmas looming, businesses may also be looking for a special presentation gift - perhaps for a valued client, foreign visitor or high-achieving member of staff. ArtsOptions can source unique gifts for unique people, or provide ArtsOptions Art Tokens which, like book tokens, can be exchanged later.

To find out more about the diverse range of original art and designer-made craft items available from ArtsOptions’ and its Art Service for Business, look at www.ArtsOptions.com. ArtsOptions can be contacted on 01449 766108, or