gifting local art

Gifting art goes beyond materialism, offering recipients a personal, meaningful piece they can treasure for years. By choosing local or custom art, you’re not only supporting artists but also giving a gift that’s truly one of a kind. Additionally, purchasing from local artists contributes directly to your community. Each piece you buy helps support an artist’s work and often small businesses that showcase their creations. Local artwork can reflect regional landscapes, culture, and styles, making it especially meaningful for those who have a strong connection to their city or neighborhood. 

Holiday art fairs and craft markets are fantastic places to find local art. These events feature a variety of artists, from painters and photographers to ceramicists and jewelers. Many local galleries host holiday events where you can explore new works and even meet artists in person. Studio tours, if available, are a unique way to see the creative process and find artwork with a personal connection. 

To go the extra mile, consider commissioned portraits of people, pets or even favorite places for a gift that is deeply personal and thoughtful. Artists offer various styles, from realistic portraits to whimsical or abstract interpretations, so you can choose one that suits the recipient’s personality. If the recipient has a favorite place in Colorado, consider commissioning a custom landscape painting or print of that location. This can make them feel connected to special memories every time they look at it. 

working with a curator

If you want to elevate your collection or create a unique holiday setup, working with an art curator can make the process smoother, more insightful and highly customized to your personal style and tastes. A professional curator brings an eye for balance and harmony, helping you find pieces you might not have considered. They can guide you on creating a cohesive theme and finding high-quality, authentic artwork. Curators take the time to understand your vision, preferences and budget, then recommend works that fit your aesthetic and seasonal goals.  

Working with a curator typically starts with a consultation to discuss preferences, budget and any particular themes or colors you’d like to incorporate. This is where you can share your holiday vision and goals for the collection. Based on your input, the curator will provide a selection of pieces, often with notes on how each one contributes to your holiday aesthetic. This stage may include in-person viewings, virtual previews or digital mock-ups to help you visualize the layout. 

Some curators offer installation guidance to ensure each piece is showcased beautifully. They may advise on placement, lighting and how to arrange your collection to create an engaging display that ties into your holiday decor. Before working with a curator, ask them these questions to determine if they are the right fit: 

What is your specialty? Knowing a curator’s focus can help ensure they’re a good match for your vision. 

What is the typical process and timeline? Understanding their workflow can help you plan and manage expectations, especially if you’re preparing for a holiday event. 

Can you assist with installation or recommend someone who can? Some curators offer end-to-end services, including installation, while others can recommend trusted installers. 

At milehimodern, we approach the home buying and selling experience much like art curators by creating a unique pathway to success. To discover how we can curate the real estate journey for you, visit our broker page and partner with Colorado’s premier real estate advisors.