Titled Artwork Rentals the business does exactly what the name says, it rents art.

“Whether it is a doctor’s waiting room or an accountant’s meeting room, these spaces can look dull and boring,” Mr Lechner said.

“A good artwork can bring people enjoyment for the 15 minutes that they have to sit there waiting.

“It also makes the space look professional.

“Artwork can really make a difference.”

Artwork Rentals has a collection of 35 pieces that businesses can choose from and there are plans for expansion.

Each client fills in a questionnaire to identify what in the collection would suit their work space. They sign up to a contract to rent one or more artworks and every four months the artwork is changed to something new.

“My prints aren’t cheap. They are not expensive, but they are not cheap,” Mr Lechner said.

“If a business buys one of my prints they are committed to it, but this service gives them ­variety.

“It is unique, accessible and not a huge ­commitment for the business.”

Artwork Rentals targets waiting and meeting rooms, offices and reception areas of small businesses in the Hunter,

There are plans to expand the service into the Central Coast and Sydney.

Clients also have the option to buy the artwork at the end of the contract with a discount that takes into account the rental period.

“Businesses sometimes don’t realise what a difference an artwork can make to a space,” he said.

“Businesses should be asking ‘what have I got on the walls, is it current and is it appropriate?’

“Renting art can be a fraction of the cost of purchasing artworks and makes good business sense.”

More information on the new business venture can be found at  johnlechnerfineartprints.com.au.