By Alexandre Lemieux, Creos
Art transforms spaces and has the power to touch people deeply, therefore impacting purchasing behaviors. Interactive and immersive art engages, connects and sparks wonder. At Creos, we believe in the transformative power of art to create a unique ambience, enhance brand image, enrich the customer experience and increase perceived value.
We are not alone. Retailers constantly seek ways to stand out in a competitive market, and creating a unique ambience is key.
Shifting the Narrative: Experiences Over Products
Why does art matter in retail? Because it transforms spaces. This is not just a trend — it is an imperative. Integrating experiential elements is crucial. Brands that align with cultural moments create deeper emotional connections and long-term loyalty.
Retail markets are increasingly competitive, and retailers continuously seek to differentiate their offerings. One way to do this is to provide a pleasant and exciting shopping ambience to connect tenants and the community with their environment.
Oak in Oklahoma City exemplifies this. After 15 years in development, this mixed-use project prioritizes art to create a sense of place. Ryan McNeill — president and founder of Veritas Development, which led the project’s development and ownership team — told C+CT: “Art is a key component to placemaking, and in my opinion, it helps to create an important transition from the massing of the various structures down to the human scale and allow human interaction with pieces that take placemaking to the next level. The best projects that I see around the country and around the world don’t just stop with great architectural focus, but they then go into parks and public places.”
A $2 million investment in sculptures by artists Brad Oldham and Christy Coltrin of Brad Oldham Sculpture also reflects McNeill’s commitment to this vision, according to C+CT. Photo credit: Shea Alan
The Robin Report article Unconventional Experiential Retail Strategies emphasizes that consumers now prioritize experiences over products. To stay relevant, retailers must align with the cultural and experiential moments that define their customers.
Ready to Transform Your Retail Experience?
If you want to captivate, surprise and attract, our interactive installations are made for you! Turn your retail space into a must-visit destination with experiences that awaken the senses and leave a lasting impression. Magic, emotion and engagement — our creations transform every visit into an unforgettable moment. With over 420 projects completed worldwide in the past 10 years, our expertise makes all the difference. Let the experience speak for itself!
Choose an installation, and we'll handle the rest with unparalleled detail! Our unrivaled turnkey service ensures your peace of mind.
Do you believe in the power of art? Dive in and start the journey by contacting alexandre.lemieux@creos.io.