What’s the best gift for someone who already has everything?
The holiday season is often anything but calm. Between crowded airports, hosting duties, and packed schedules, gift-giving can quickly become another source of stress. Deciding what to buy, especially for someone who already seems to have everything, often feels harder than it should be.
However, finding a meaningful gift can be an enjoyable and rewarding process. That’s where art comes in.
Art Is a Truly Unique Gift
One of the most common holiday questions I hear is: What do you give someone who already has it all?
The answer is something unique, and few things are more unique than a work of art. An original artwork is, by definition, one of a kind. Even editions differ subtly.
Art doesn’t just occupy space; it holds meaning and memory, which makes it an incredibly thoughtful gift for the holidays, birthdays, or another celebration.
How to Choose The Right Artwork
Whether you’re deciding between a print, a handcrafted ceramic, or a painting, keep these five things in mind if you're considering art as a holiday gift.
1. Choose something personal
Sentiment matters. Look for something by an artist from the recipient’s hometown, something that reflects their personal interests, or something tied to a shared memory.
2. Keep the scale manageable
Smaller works, such as works on paper, are ideal. This offers the recipient greater flexibility in choosing where to place the piece.
3. Stick to a versatile color palette
Think deeply about which colors would look good in the recipient’s home. If in doubt, choose neutral. Black, white, gray, and earth tones go well with most interiors.
4. Save the documentation
Provenance matters. Any collectible artwork should come with proper paperwork, especially if it holds long-term value. Provenance documents and authenticity certificates can also be presented alongside the primary gift.
5. Include a handwritten note
Think of this as the artwork’s wall label. A brief explanation of why you chose the piece adds meaning and ensures the gift's intention is understood. The small details matter when you’re giving a meaningful gift.
Don’t Overlook Vintage Art
A meaningful art gift doesn’t require an extravagant budget. Vintage artwork can be an excellent option.
Estate sales and vintage shops are my go-to destinations for in-person shopping. If I can’t visit a store, online platforms like Etsy, eBay, and Artsy can be reliable alternatives. Depending on the city, local art fairs and galleries also carry vintage pieces.
The Gift That Keeps Giving
Art is one of the rare gifts that continues to resonate long after it’s given. It doesn’t get used up, replaced, or forgotten. It becomes part of the space, and, most importantly, it becomes part of the story.
For the person who truly has everything, art may be the most thoughtful gift of all.
