With a bit of research and careful consideration, an artwork will make a beautiful and unexpected gift that is guaranteed to last a lifetime. Discover our head curator’s 5 top tips for buying art as a gift, whatever the occasion.
By Rebecca Gordon
Birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, Christmas… Meaningful milestones that when marked by a gift are made all the more memorable. When it comes to finding the right present, the key is to avoid falling into the inevitable traps of the cliche or the boring. As all art lovers will know, there’s definitely nothing boring about a unique work of art. While buying art for a loved one may seem like a daunting prospect, do not shy away from the task – the brave will always be rewarded.
With a bit of research and careful consideration, an artwork will make a beautiful and unexpected gift that is guaranteed to last a lifetime. Discover our head curator’s 5 top tips for buying art as a gift, whatever the occasion.
Sources of Pop Art IV, £5,500
Shop Sir Peter Blake’s Works >>
1 Determine Your Budget
Be it for a birthday, a housewarming, a Christening or even a wedding, the bandwidth of your budget may determine whether you buy an original work on canvas, a sculpture or a limited edition print. Deciding your budget will help you easily direct your search and be realistic about your options. Where possible and if it gives some added comfort reach out to an advisor who can help you get the most bang for your buck.
2 Consider the Space
Photographs courtesy of Turner Pocock
It’s safe to assume that if you know someone well enough to be buying them art, you’ll probably have a good idea of their space. Consider the style and size of their home before browsing for a piece. Is it colourful and eclectic, or pared back and minimal? Considering their tastes and interiors will help you narrow your search and ensure the piece really works in their home. If you’re in doubt, it’s always a safe option to err on the side of caution and gift a smaller work, because original works come in all sizes and there is always space for a small work at home, whether it’s hung, or sits on a mantel piece, shelf or bedside table.
Fly Like a Dragon, £2,259
3 Make it Meaningful
Art is often bought because of its emotional appeal and can be highly revealing of someone’s taste and personality. Creating a connection through theme will ensure that your recipient truly loves the work. Think about their favourite hobbies; do they love travelling, fashion, nature or design? Where are they from, or do they have a favourite place? Or is there something about the occasion that you could symbolise through the piece?
Event, £340
Shop Lisa O’Donnell’s Works >>
For example, a wedding will allow you to symbolise the precious bond between two people with an artwork to endure the years. Whether you wing it and fly solo, choosing to gift a work on your own, or you contribute to a designated wedding registry for art, it’s the kind of gift that will make a huge, lasting impact, displaying a higher level of effort and thoughtfulness.
4 Get it Framed
Left: Vestur Uglu London, £315
Right: Austur Robin London 2016, £315
Kristjana S Williams
Shop Kristjana Williams’ Works >>
If your budget allows, be sure to mount and frame the work so it is ready to hang. There is nothing more satisfying than being able to put up an artwork immediately, and few things more annoying than having to find a local framer, transport it there and then pay for it on top! Let’s also not forget that a great frame has the ability to transform any artwork, no matter how small.
5 Go With a Gift Card
Be Wilder, £300
A gift card is the perfect backup plan, offering your recipient the pleasure of browsing, discovering and investing in an artwork they really love. It will take the pressure off you, whilst remaining a highly personal and thoughtful gift. Just make sure to check if there is an expiry date, so nobody ends up disappointed!
Your Wedding Registry | The perfect gift to last a lifetime
Discover our bespoke wedding registry service and be inspired to commemorate your special day with artwork to last a lifetime. Our expert curators are on hand to help you navigate the process and discover works you love, creating a dedicated page just for you to reflect your tastes. Choose a wish list of your favourite artworks to share privately with your friends and family, and give your guests the option to contribute to your art fund or purchase the artworks you’ve chosen – it’s as simple as that! Find out more and get in touch.