It’s that time of year again, and we find ourselves in the same position every year—thinking about that special gift we’re going to get our loved ones. We toil with the questions “what do you get for the person that has everything?” or “I’d really like to get him/her something unique that they don’t have”. Really, there’s so much we must take into account when buying a gift, it becomes a stressful thing.
Giving art as a gift can be viewed as a risky move for some people, but we’re going to break it down for you, and you’ll see why art is actually a fantastic gift, and how it can be enjoyable for you to buy!
Firstly, let’s talk about how this can be fun:
Visiting local art shows is a great way to boost your Holiday spirit. There’s always something unique, you support your local community, and there’s always great people to talk to. Refreshments and snacks are often at hand and you can leisurely stroll through a show at your own pace.
Make a day of it and get to know the artists. They’ll love to talk to you about their work, and it will also give you a great appreciation for art if you don’t already have one.
Kids love art. Looking at art gives them inspiration to try it themselves, so it’s a great outing for the whole family—like visiting a museum, and it’s a whole lot better than trudging through shopping malls and dealing with the bah-humbugs.
Have we got you convinced? Let’s talk about why art is a great gift:
We don’t know of any artist that hasn’t put their heart and soul into their work. When someone buys a piece of art, there’s an appreciation for the love that’s in that work and that love is passed on to the recipient. It’s a beautiful way to express how much you care.
Art also evokes emotion and great memories. A painting or professional photograph can remind people of places they’ve been, or even just convey a mood that’s got them hooked. It’s a unique way to freeze that moment in time and hold onto it.
There’s more!
Let’s go right to the source, and hear from some people who have received art as a gift:
Nancy writes: "My husband bought me a painting 2 years ago for the holidays. The painting, by Fran Swift was of a place we visited on vacation every summer. I was so touched that he’d put this kind of thought into what to get me. I look at it everyday, and think about him, and think about the memories we had. It’s become a prized possession."
Bruce writes: "I have a love for all things nature and the North, but I’m not an easy person to buy for. My family wanted to get me something for my big 40, so they got me a spectacular sculpture of a polar bear, carved by local artist Patrick Imai. It takes pride of place on my fireplace mantle, and reminds me of my time in the North."
Jessica writes: "My husband and two daughters bought me a painting by local artist, Roy Brash for Christmas last year, and I was so overcome with emotion. His coastal scenes remind me of our family holidays at our cottage on the east coast - teaching the kids to sail, and going for dips in the freezing water!"
What if you don’t know a person’s style?
If you don’t know their style, visit your local gallery and ask them about gift certificates. A gallery gift certificate can also be a wonderful gift.
