The Gift of Art

Few gifts are more memorable and truly heartfelt for that special someone on your list than an original piece of art. Original artwork is one of those rare items that often gets passed down for future generations. If this year has taught us anything, it’s that we should cherish and show those we love how much they mean every day. What better way to do that then give a piece that will conjure future memories for your family. 

Q: How much would I need to spend when purchasing an original piece of art?

A: You don’t need to spend a fortune when buying art for yourself or someone else. We offer art for every price range to accommodate your gift giving or personal budget. For example, a hand-made ornament from a favorite artist may be as little as $20 dollars, which is equivalent to the cost of a small poinsettia. And unlike a houseplant, you will have that piece for years to come! Art is a timeless gift that can last a lifetime.

Q: What if I can’t afford an original piece? Do I have other options to still give art to someone special on my list?

A: Yes! Prints are a great option and we sell a lot at price points under $100. You can give an unframed print to reduce the cost or find your own frame. There are now a lot of great and affordable framing options readily available from your local craft store or Target, making it easy to find something to suit your style and needs. And unlike a sweater or bathrobe, art is a timeless piece that won’t go out of style over time.

Q: Do I need to know how their home is decorated before selecting the right piece?

A: Art is very personal and subjective. I think it's important to know someone’s style and taste when gifting a piece of art. If you want to give a piece of art but are unsure about their home’s design style then a gift card is a perfect option! People are always surprised by the gift of art — and they will love the ability to choose something for themselves.

Q: Can a small piece of art still have a big impact?

A: Absolutely! Some of my favorite places to feature a smaller scale piece of art is on an entry table by the front door, in a powder room, on a bedroom dresser, or on a kitchen counter. Whether it’s a piece you picked up on your travels or a holiday gift, art can conjure special memories. Your art says a lot about you, from your personal style to what you treasure most. Some people collect artworks that all feature the same type of animal — I know someone with a series of giraffe paintings, and another with a collection of turtle paintings. My friend’s grandmother has small, inexpensive paintings she picks up from street artists on every vacation she takes. Whatever it is that speaks to you, that is what you should showcase in your home.

Q: Would I need to provide framing?

A: Frames are the finishing touch and a really wonderful custom art frame can run anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand. That being said, there are also creative and inexpensive ways to find frames online or at your local art supply store. The thing to remember is that a framed piece of art will give the recipient pleasure and a piece of decor for years to come — far outlasting the sofa, expensive dinner out, or fancy kitchen appliance that could end up collecting dust and can cost far more than that frame!

Q: My friend/family member loves art but I just don’t know what to give them?

A: Art is very personal, so it’s not always easy to choose artwork for someone, even someone you know well. My best advice is if you’re not sure, give a gift card. We sell lots of gift cards to people during the holidays, but they are also very popular for wedding and anniversary gifts! Long after the china and silverware have been put away, every bride and groom enjoys selecting artwork for their new home together.

Blue Bliss by Lauren Bruce Wodicka / Low Country by Christen Yates

 

If you have more questions, I am here to assist first time or regular buyers all the way through their art buying and hanging journey. For more tips or information please check out my other articles.