The Gift of Art

We occasionally have discussions with visitors about whether or not art makes a "good" or "appropriate" gift.

An Alchemy Stone

A surprising number of people seem to feel uncomfortable with the idea of giving art as a gift. "But I don't know if they'd appreciate this," they say, or "We have similar taste and they have a house full of art... but I'm just not sure they'd like this."

Based on the 15 years I spent in the gallery business previously, my experience tells me that art is generally a much better gift than people thing... but the bottom line of giving art as a gift has a definite "it depends" element to it.

The beauty of giving the gift of art is that you are giving something unique that will continue to offer the recipient enjoyment for years and years to come. UNlike a night on the town or even a pair of shoes, art has no "shelf life." It will always be there, as a reminder of a happy moment, and of the giver.

Giving a piece of art also says something about you, the giver: You took the time to pick out something unique for the recipient, rather than just pick "One Mass-Produced Whatever" that can be had at every corner store. Art is a statement of "I do care."

From a painting by Jacqueline Chisick

Art can be the perfect gift for close friends, loved ones and relatives you know well.

The "it depends" factor enters the picture when when we consider gifts for people we don't know as well. Even then, art can still be an excellent and unique gift, but we must be more mindful of our choices, and make sure we're not forcing something unusual or unconventional on someone who wouldn't welcome it.

On the whole, though, the gift of art is both appropriate and good. My wife and I have often given each other art for anniversaries and special occasions, and we have often given art to others-- and the response has almost always been very positive.