Picking personal and thoughtful Christmas gifts is never an easy task but Katy Bettridge of Hepplestone Fine Art Gallery in Heskin, takes us through a few arty suggestions for the ultimate in Festive giving.
Gift vouchers are always a nice safe option as a present at Christmas and art vouchers are often popular here in the gallery. For those feeling a little more adventurous however, there is nothing like personally selecting a piece of art that reflects the interests and personality of the recipient. Below are just a few suggestions of original paintings, limited edition prints and also sculpture and glassware to delight and inspire your loved ones this Christmas.
For trend setters why not consider:
Andrei Protsouk
Born in the Ukraine, Andrei Protsouk currently resides in the USA and has exhibited throughout the world with corporate clients including Coca Cola, Johnnie Walker Expo Co and Imperial Cosmetics. With a cool and quirky figurative style, Andrei Protsouk is one to watch in the art world.
Aptly described as ‘Rat Pack Meets Picasso’, Todd White is one of the coolest artists on the planet. Todd White has become a favourite with international collectors as well as US celebrities including Hugh Hefner and Vin Diesel. Todd White’s paintings offer a sophistication combined with humour and are a great gift for the socialites in your family.
For lovers of vibrant colours, sparkle and bling:
Rozanne Bell was born in Zimbabwe where she lived for 40 years. Now living in the UK her contemporary art style is growing rapidly in popularity. The latest works by Rozanne Bell exhibit her unique view of an architectural landscape encompassing a curious and whimsical character combined with a realism and grittiness unequalled in the art world today. The subjects of Rozanne Bell’s paintings are novel; new and full of vitality. The influence of her African upbringing combined with the injection of British humour has ensured that Rozanne’s paintings are much in demand.
Kerry Darlington
Full of imagination and originality, Kerry Darlington’s art is a fabulous gift for old and young. From fairytales to cutting edge contemporary abstracts, there is something for everyone with Kerry Darlington’s artwork. No wonder she was voted best selling published artist in the UK in 2014.
Tim Cotterill, also known as Frogman, was born in Leicester in 1950 and now resides in California. His bronze frog sculptures capture the whimsical character, the jewel-like quality and the pure Joy of these beautiful little creatures. Whether you are shopping for a frog lover or just someone who admires the unique, Frogman is a great choice to suit most budgets.
Something sophisticated to set the mood:
Born in Buenos Aires in 1967, Fabian Perez has become one of the world’s most widely collected contemporary artists. Now based in Los Angeles, Fabian Perez paints with emotion and devotes his life to inspiring others with his painting and writings. Perfect for a sophisticated loved one or to express an emotion of love, Fabian Perez’ artwork is a sure fire hit. Look out for Fabian’s beautiful collectors books also as great gifts for the art lover in your life.
Artist Barry Hilton was born in Manchester but moved to St Ives in Cornwall in 1979 where he began to develop his style of painting dramatic skies that have made him one of the most sought after artists working in the UK today. His dramatic skies and vibrant colours create a contemporary feel enjoyed by collectors of varied artistic tastes. Befitting of both contemporary and traditional homes, Barry Hilton’s work has a wide appeal to suit so many tastes and with the choice of limited edition prints or original paintings, also most budgets.
Classic elegance:
Lalique Glassware and Jewellery
Revolutionary artist, both admired and considered eccentric, René Lalique has a huge following, from the European courts to artistic and industrial milieus around the world. This prolific genius, dubbed “the Rodin of transparencies” by Maurice Rostand, has infused his Maison with such poetic force that 150 years later, the charm still operates and his art has become timeless. Pieces range from perfume bottles to statues and jewellery so whether it is the feminine touch or a piece of timeless quality that is required, Lalieue has it all. Revolutionary artist, both admired and considered eccentric, René Lalique has a huge following, from the European courts to artistic and industrial milieus around the world. This prolific genius, dubbed “the Rodin of transparencies” by Maurice Rostand, has infused his Maison with such poetic force that 150 years later, the charm still operates and his art has become timeless. Pieces range from perfume bottles to statues and jewellery so whether it is the feminine touch or a piece of timeless quality that is required, Lalieue has it all.
Check out more art gift ideas at www.hepplestonefineart.com or visit the gallery at Heskin Farmers Market and Craft Centre, Lancashire, PR7 5PA.
