Are you a keen podcast listener? I'm totally addicted. I always have a podcast playing as I paint or type or run or drive. Recently I was listening to one particular podcast by two inspirational artists and they were chatting about the pros and the cons of giving art as a gift.
On another podcast *I really do listen to a zillion of them* the presenters were focused specifically on Christmas and suggested scanning artworks, adding snowflakes digitally and Christmas-ifying art to make it more sale-able.
I have to admit that I'm not willing to go that far! I'm a bit of a purist when it comes to my own art. But being a purist doesn't go so far as to assuming others have the same taste or style as me... so let's keep it real here.
Here are my top reasons to buy art as a gift this year:
'Brightest Dreams' Original Artwork by Ros Gervay
Reason 01: It's Not Boring
It's not boring. It's not predictable. It's not ho-hum. The gift of art makes for conversation, connection, community. You can chat about how you came across the artwork, what the artwork means to you, why you thought it would be appreciated by the recipient or where in their home it would look lovely. If you want to express your love through a memorable gift, it's time to branch out and think outside of the square.
'Palette in Green' Original Artwork by Ros Gervay
Reason 02: Excellent Customer Service
Most artists will let you exchange the artwork for another if the recipient prefers another piece from the artist's gallery. Artists are typically very caring humans who love to share their passion. It means a lot to them to have happy customers and for their pieces to be appreciated and loved. When you give art to a loved one, you can include a note in the card saying to get in touch with the artist directly if they want to swap the artwork.
'A Quiet Life' Original Artwork by Ros Gervay
Reason 03: Win-win Options
Many artists like to offer two types of gift certificates. The first is a straight forward "artwork to the value of $X" and the other is more like an open invitation to choose an artwork that takes their fancy. These certificates usually say something like "an artwork of your choice" without a monetary value. This leaves it up to the recipient to choose a piece that they love, and saves the gift giver from having to choose a specific artwork. It's a win-win!
So, tell me in the comments: who do you know who would love an artwork as a gift?
Ros
x
P.S. Have you explored my latest original artworks? Have a sneak peek here!