Artist File
Diana Hamm Shares Gift Ideas For The Art Lovers On Your List
Updated on November 4, 2023
In our Artist File column, art advisor Diana Hamm of WK ART shares the artists that have caught her eye.
One of my favorite parts of the holiday season is the feeling of satisfaction that comes from finding a gift for someone that I know they’ll absolutely love. Presents should be treats rather than necessities: something that the recipient likely wouldn’t buy for themselves. Art-inspired gifts fit this category — they’re always beautiful and often practical, too. Here are ideas for friends and family who love art. I’d gift any of these pieces and would love to receive one or two as well (ahem)!
1. Whimsical Candles
Tableware brand Misette is brilliant at weaving together whimsy and function. These candles have intricate details and a line drawing feel — perfect for the art lover in your life. “I’m a big believer that you should go ahead and burn the good candles — life’s too short!” says Misette co-founder Amy Burstyn Fritz. “This pair is hand painted in Canada with Picasso-inspired designs.”
Modern Easel
Whether you’re featuring a family photo, vintage piece or special print or painting, this acrylic easel is a fresh way to display art. With the easel’s sleek shape and cool translucent finish, cherished artworks take center stage.
Contemporary Marble
This travertine table and plinth are sophisticated stages for sculptural works or beautiful objets. Available in three marbles in a honed finish, they’ll elevate any piece in your collection.
Playful Tableware
Renowned chef Yotam Ottolenghi and artist Ivo Bisignano have teamed up with Belgian design brand Serax to create a tableware line that’s equal parts fun and elegant. The face nods to Picasso’s work and adds an artful touch to your table.
Artistic Jewelry
These earrings are like little pieces of art in themselves. Beaufille is a Canadian jewelry brand I’ve been buying for a few years now; I love how detailed and artistic each piece is. “Jewelry is wearable art — sculpture for the body,” says designer Parris Morris. “I always think about how an earring will frame the face or attach to the body; those elements need to be just as creative as the use of materials or the composition.”
Dyanmic Display
The Frame TV from Samsung is a fabulous concept. While not the most practical gift to give to just anyone, it is a great present for your partner (or yourself!). Canadian photographer David Burdeny has photographs you can display, or try something more classic like an image of the Mona Lisa.
With limitless art options to display on the screen when you’re not watching a program, this TV is perfect for open-concept spaces where you don’t want to stare at a black box.
Art Books
Phaidon produces the most wonderful books. They’re beautiful and look great on a coffee table, but they’re also incredibly well-researched and function as powerful learning tools. I’d love to receive Great Women Artists, which highlights more than 400 female artists over the past 500 years. Notable Canadians such as Emily Carr, Rebecca Belmore and Agnes Martin are included.
Unique Ornaments
Absolutely Inc. has the best assortment of Christmas ornaments. Every year, the design brand sources a different selection, like this beauty that looks like a mini Matisse painting. These ornaments are always my go-to gift for my host; they stand out on the Christmas tree and serve as a memory of holidays past.
Wearable Art
This scarf was created in celebration of artist Nicolas Party’s exhibition at the Musée des beaux-arts de Montréal. Featuring Nicolas’s painting, Red Forest, this accessory embodies his playful and colourful style, and brings nature into a vibrant two-dimensional form.
Creative Education
For art lovers looking to further their education, Jones Gallery in New Brunswick offers fantastic courses. Artist, art historian and curator Sarah Jones has put together a special series on building an art collection. This would be a rewarding gift for someone who has an interest in collecting but doesn’t know where to start.
Sculptural Vase
I love a beautiful vase. This one, designed by Theresa Rand for Menu, has a contemporary design that’s inspired by test tubes, and it sits suspended on slim legs. Adding interest and texture to rooms, this accent is an ideal present for a design-savvy friend or family member.
Diana Hamm of WK ART is a Toronto art adviser. A graduate of Sotheby’s Institute of Art in London, U.K., Diana focuses on contemporary art and discovering emerging artists. She also advises private clients on acquisitions and collection-building.
Find out more at wkart.ca.
All products featured on House & Home are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
House & Home November 2022