The art we choose to surround ourselves with is a clear reflection of our personal taste, style and personality. So to gift art to someone else can be a daunting and personal gesture.
My guide to gifting art…
If you already know the recipient's favourite artist then perfect, your search should be a lot more straight forward, but more about that later..!
If not however, here are some approaches you may find helpful...
Search by style...
Identifying what style of art the recipient enjoys is a great place to start. Be lead by the style of artwork they already own; most people tend to be drawn to one or possibly two particular styles.
- Representational
- Impressionistic
- Abstract
- Realism
- Hyperrealism
- Pop art
Search by Genre...
The genre of artwork we seek out is often influenced by our interests and life passions.
- Portraiture
- Landscapes
- City scenes
- Still Life
- Animals
- Floral
- Abstract
Nature: For those that enjoy spending time in nature or by the sea, they may look to bring a sense of the outside to their walls. This could be through an atmospheric landscape painting or by capturing the essence nature within an abstract piece of art.
Animal lovers: They will likely seek out paintings that centre around wildlife, or a piece of art that reminds them of their pet.
City scenes: A city scene is ideal for evoking memories, such as that special trip taken with a loved one, making it the perfect sentimental gift.
By Colour...
Most people have a favourite colour or colours, so this is will naturally aid your search when gifting art. If you have the opportunity to, then have a look at their home decor for inspiration or even the clothes they wear.
By Room…
When you gift art, knowing which room/space it will eventually reside in may influence the colour palette you search for. Each colour has it’s individual qualities and can enhance a space in different ways.
The location of the artwork will also influence the size of art you purchase, if unsure then I'd suggest going for a smaller piece to allow for more flexibility when it comes to hanging the artwork.
Add a personal touch...
A piece of word art would make a unique gift, and you may even wish to have a piece commissioned to incorporate a word/s that resonate with the recipient, or express how you feel about them.
Inspirational wall art Is another heartfelt way to gift art. You could have it personalised with a particular sentiment or their favourite quote.
Whether it’s of a family member, friend or a much loved pet, having a portrait commissioned makes for a truly personal gift.
Search by artist...
If the person you are gifting art to already owns some artwork, you will have a clear idea of the artists or style of work they like to collect. In this instance, if you have deep enough pockets, you could simply add to their existing collection; fantastic, job done!
If you are however feeling brave, why not go for the wild card option?! Take the knowledge you have and browse the internet, visit your local art gallery and seek out a piece of art by a new or emerging artist to introduce to their collection. Not only will you be supporting an independent artist, but the recipient will undoubtably be impressed and touched by your initiative.
To gift art framed or not…
Some people prefer to gift pieces of art already framed, so that it is ready to hang and hassle free for the recipient. Whereas the advantage to presenting it unframed is the flexibility it allows when incorporating it into an existing decor.
Gifting art vouchers…
A gift voucher from their favourite artist or gallery is also a great option. This works especially well for leaving gifts, housewarming presents etc when multiple people may wish to contribute.
Quick recap...
- Identify the style of art you are looking for.
- Confirm the genre.
- Be clear on the colour palette you are looking for.
- Add a personal touch - consider a piece of word art, an inspirational print or commission a portrait.
- Search by artist. Either add to an existing collection or be bold and introduce the work of a new artist of similar style and genre.
- To frame or not to frame - is dependent on multiple factors, so no right or wrong answer.
- A gift voucher - simple but sensible.
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