By Chelsea Reed
Yes, you really can give artwork as a holiday gift! It’s easier than you might think, and gifting art is appropriate for any occasion of the year. It’s a high compliment to give someone this type of gift because it shows the person how much you care about them. Not sure how to choose? No worries! These seven expert tips will help guide you in your decision.
1. It’s an Individual Experience
Shopping for art as a gift is a thoughtful process that connects you to someone special. Each piece is unique, and so is the person you’re gifting it to. Ask yourself: what do they enjoy doing? What are their favorite places, things, or subjects, and why? Write down your answers and take them with you when you shop. If you’re making art purchases for a group, tie in a common theme you all share, like a sports team mascot. How fun to know that your Cardinal fan friends have a painting with a cardinal in it like yours!
2. Consider the Sizes
Going for that grand five foot painting seems like a great idea until it has to fit into their home. Figure out the room in their residential space first. If you’re not able to know, play it safe and choose small. Miniature art is the perfect flexible gift size. They can display it on the wall, a shelf, a chest drawer, or even a travel camper!
3. Have a Budget in Mind
Like any kind of holiday shopping, it’s important to know your budget plan. And believe it or not, high quality original art is more affordable than you think. Many etchings at Seaside Art Gallery, for example, are less than $200. Each one is made by hand. We also have a generous layaway plan!
4. Shop Local Businesses
The art you gift is unique, so why not get it from a unique place? Shopping from a local art gallery is a great way to support local artists and art businesses in your community, so you can feel good about your purchase.
5. Think About the Art Content
Art communicates many things on a visual level, and each piece says something different. Think about how the meaning of the piece would apply for the person you’re giving it to.
6. Include a Frame
Always make sure the art you’re gifting comes in a frame. You certainly don’t want to inconvenience the recipient with trying to frame their own gift! Framing services are available at Seaside Art Gallery if you need a frame for a specific piece.
7. Make it Personal
Because art gifting by nature is a personal experience, it is appropriate to include a handwritten note or card. You can make it even more fun by adding a printout of the artist’s biography! Learning more about the artist increases the recipient’s connection to and appreciation for the art.
You don’t have to be an art major to enjoy art – artwork is for everyone! The key is to find the piece that personally connects with the person receiving the gift. For more expert advice on gifting art, contact our staff at Seaside Art Gallery. We’re happy to help. Happy Holidays!
Chelsea Reed is a copywriter who writes online content, articles, blogs, and websites from her base in North Carolina.