The Intersection of Art & Play + Meaningful Work

Graphic (left): Justine Anweiler, Art & Play x Meaningful Work, 2024.
Photo (right): Screenshot, Oracle Backgrounds, 2024.

Not too long ago, Alice Hahn, Zil Ricker (not shown), and I submitted a proposal for a grant in Washington, D.C.

We proposed a project that questions our preconceived notions of "meaningful work," the process of recruitment, and expected personas in the workplace.

The three of us with VERY DIFFERENT backgrounds, skillsets, and experiences all landed on the same question:

Why can't it be fun?!

Followed by . . .

Who said you can't be hired for embodying The Fool?!

Who makes the rules?!

In the true spirit of our trio, we decided to pitch a pilot that offers something different. So we did!

And today, I was reminded on a call with Amy Wilson and Alice Hahn how inspired, light-hearted, and joyous work can be. Through the simple act of choosing playful backgrounds, silly accessories, and running with our imaginations - we made work fun.

Our chosen backgrounds became oracles for our future selves, and before long, we were delivering "serious content" in ridiculous guises. It was refreshing to be both a presenter and presentee, who could at any point opt out of the seriousness and see life for what it is—a delightful game.

One where we make the rules and have a little fun doing it ~ 💃🏼🛸🍄‍🟫🐉

Article FAQs generated by Chat GPT:
1. How can incorporating play and fun into the workplace actually improve productivity and creativity rather than detract from it?
Play and fun can foster a more open and relaxed environment where employees feel safe to express their ideas without fear of judgment. This approach encourages experimentation, innovation, and collaboration, as it breaks down hierarchical barriers and reduces stress. However, this concept challenges traditional metrics of success, which often prioritize efficiency and output over the well-being and engagement of employees. To align this playful approach with organizational goals, companies may need to adopt new performance indicators that value creativity, employee satisfaction, and collaborative problem-solving.

2. What are the potential challenges or criticisms of hiring someone for embodying "The Fool," and how might these be addressed within conventional organizational structures?
Critics might argue that such a role could undermine professionalism or the seriousness of the workplace. However, these challenges could be addressed by reframing the concept of "The Fool" as a role that brings fresh perspectives, challenges the status quo, and introduces a creative, playful element to problem-solving. Organizations could integrate this role into teams where innovation, adaptability, and unconventional thinking are particularly valuable, such as in creative industries, product development, or organizational change initiatives.

3. The idea of being hired for embodying "The Fool" is provocative, but what practical steps could be taken to integrate this concept into real-world recruitment and employment practices?
To integrate the concept of hiring someone for embodying "The Fool," organizations could redefine job descriptions to value creativity, curiosity, and risk-taking and use unconventional recruitment methods like improvisation sessions or creative challenges. They should also cultivate a culture of psychological safety that encourages experimentation and celebrates unconventional thinking as essential for innovation.

4. In what ways can organizations rethink their definitions of "meaningful work," and what new models or frameworks could support this shift?
Organizations can rethink their definitions of "meaningful work" by considering new models that prioritize purpose, employee well-being, and personal growth alongside traditional business goals. This could involve adopting frameworks such as purpose-driven or human-centered work models, which emphasize the impact of the work on society and the individual. Case studies from companies like Patagonia, Google, or Zappos, which have implemented unique approaches to redefine meaningful work, could serve as examples. These companies have demonstrated that when work aligns with an individual's values and allows for creative expression, it can lead to higher engagement, satisfaction, and overall better business outcomes.