How to Find Affordable Art to Give as Gifts

Affordable Art Makes Great Gifts (Image courtesy of Marshall Astor)

Art is wonderful. It brightens our homes. Art broadens our world. And it gives us something lovely to look at. But often finding art that is affordable can be a big challenge. Many one-of-a-kind pieces cost hundreds– even thousands of dollars which doesn’t fit into gift budgets very well. But there are ways to find affordable art to give as gifts. Here are a few places to look.

Etsy

Etsy is a marketplace where artists can sell their work. Thousands of people have Etsy shops with unique items to sell and most is very affordable. Pick up signed digital prints for less than $10 like this one from artist Sarah Knight. Or for wearable art, check out this Paris Map necklace made from a scrabble tile and paper. It’s only $6.95.

6×6 Gallery

Sometimes smaller is better. At 6×6gallery.com all of the art is made on six inch squares. That means you can pick up original art starting at just $35. If you happen to be in New York, check out the Six by Six Gallery on East 13th Street. Otherwise, order up your affordable art online.

Local Shops

Head to some local art shops and galleries. Many artists will have prints of their original works to sell that are far more affordable. You can either buy the print framed or unframed. For an even more affordable way to give art as gifts only purchase the print and head to a thrift store to look for a low-cost frame. It’s a great way to support local artists in your community without spending a whole lot of money.

Postcards and Note Cards

Some artists even choose to turn their works of art into postcards or note cards. Pick up a pack of these and find a small matted frame at a craft store. Better yet– buy several different note card designs from the same artist and frame three of them to create a nice grouping of framed art to give as a gift.