KROHNE Art Collection: Art as a Communication Bridge and Source of Inspiration within the Company

Miriam Anders, a student of communication and art studies at the University of Duisburg-Essen, conducted a scientific study on the integration of art into internal communication at KROHNE as part of her bachelor's thesis.

The central question of her empirical work was, "What influence do publicly displayed artworks from a corporate art collection have on the internal communication of a company's employees?" To answer this, Miriam Anders conducted and analysed interviews with employees and observed interactions specifically. The results show that the artworks within the company are far more than decorative elements. They serve as communication bridges and promote exchange between employees, guests, and applicants.

Anders highlights that artworks in various company areas such as corridors, lifts, and meeting rooms create orientation and emotional familiarity. They provide conversation starters that help overcome hierarchies and foster trust. Additionally, art is perceived as part of the corporate culture, with changing exhibitions stimulating dynamics and discussions that encourage creativity and openness within the company.

"We thank Miriam Anders for this special insight and view the results of her work as a valuable contribution to the further integration of art, an important corporate value," explains Kristian Dubbick, curator of the KROHNE art collection and shareholder of the company. "The artworks are not only perceived visually but are an active part of communication and interaction in everyday work. Miriam Anders underscores with her work the significance of art as a communication bridge and source of inspiration at KROHNE."