Christmas Gifts for Artists
Gift shopping can be difficult no matter who the recipient: every person has his or her own interests and style, and it might be a bit daunting walking into a store not knowing where to start. But what if the person you are shopping for is an artist? In which case, you might consider changing your shopping starting point altogether. Instead of immediately going to the electronics stores or department stores, you can start at the framer's or head to an arts and crafts store; think works of art to hang on walls, or art supplies (which ''all'' artists constantly need!).
Need more help with the process? There are many different types of artists one could shop for, so starting from there is helpful: for instance, an
cartoon company may want different things than a freshman at an art school. Let's begin.
Beginning Artists
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'''Portfolios''': Every artist from the very beginning needs a good portfolio to properly store his or her work.
* '''Beginner's books''': Beginner's books for
painting will help your artist get started.
* '''Drawing Mannequins''': If you can't afford to hire out a live human model, then invest in a small
wooden mannequin; it will be immeasurably useful.
* '''Sets of Pencils''': A
set of paint tubes might also be greatly appreciated.
The Studio Artist
Studio artists are your '''painters, sketchers, sculptors''', and any other artists who requires a studio setting to draw and sketch out their work, whether it is for fine art, illustration, cartooning, etc. Whether you are buying for the veteran artist or the student, you can always invest in these items to keep them productive.
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Paper: Before any final product is created, a first draft must be sketched out. Now, depending on what she or he will use it for, an artist may prefer a specific kind of paper. Here are a few different types you can buy:
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sketchbook.
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Charcoal Paper: This is coarser paper that picks up charcoal well.
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portfolio.
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canvas, but will fold up easily for storage.
* '''For sculptors''': If your artist is clay modeling, carving, or casting, supplies will vary, but the basics are a
modeling clay tool set, and so on.
The Photographer
Photographers also use a studio for work, but the supplies and equipment will be drastically different than those of someone who will only draw or sketch. Where the basics are concerned, a photographer needs:
'''Accessories'''
* Detachable Lenses: These are good if your photographer likes to change his or her style from time to time. Different lenses can give different effects and depths of focus. Some good detachable lenses are the
Camera Bags: A sturdy bag is essential for all photographers. Photography equipment is expensive, so keep it all protected in a compact bag that is padded and waterproof.
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Camera Straps: If you are shopping for the kind of photographer who regularly carries heavy equipment around for work or school, an extra camera strap or two could do wonders to relieve shoulder pressure.
The Digital Artist
Quick Picks
Related Guides
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Christmas Gifts for Students
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Electronic Gifts for the Holidays
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Painting Supplies
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Sculpting
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Sculpture Supplies
