Buying art for someone else can be one of the most meaningful and lasting gifts you can give. But it can also feel intimidating: What if they don’t like it? What if it doesn’t fit their space? What even counts as “art” these days?
Fortunately, the owners of The Grand Hand Gallery— Rachael Hartzler and Jim Jacobson — have spent years helping people find just the right piece of art for someone they love. We sat down with them to gather their best insights into how to choose art that’s beautiful, useful and deeply personal.
Why Give Art in the First Place?
Before we get into the how, let’s talk about the why.
A piece of art — even something as simple as a handmade mug or a small painting — can serve as a lasting connection between you, the person you're giving it to, and the artist who created it. Especially when the piece is locally made, as about 80% of The Grand Hand’s artists are, it becomes a story and a relationship — not just an object.
“You’re making a much more personal and unique choice,” says Jim. “You’re buying something that’s quite likely one of a kind. The person you’re giving it to is unique, and the gift should reflect that.”
Art can also become an heirloom. It's not trendy or disposable. As Jim notes, “Art doesn’t really go out of style. It’s a timeless gift.”
Step 1: Think Practically
Let’s start with the basics.
Set a Budget
This is the first and most important step. Art exists at nearly every price point, and The Grand Hand offers a wide range — but without a budget, it’s easy to get overwhelmed or fall in love with something far outside your range.
“When you’re giving a gift, you want to reflect the bigness of your feelings,” Jim says. “But things that feel that big are often more expensive.”
A smart strategy? Pair a smaller, meaningful piece of art with another thoughtful gift, like a special experience (a dinner, a tour, etc.). This combo can carry emotional weight without blowing your budget.
Factor in Shipping
If the gift needs to travel, consider its size and fragility. Shipping ceramics or framed artwork can be costly and complex.
“Shipping costs sometimes surprise people,” Rachael notes. “In some cases, the shipping can cost more than the item itself.”
Thankfully, The Grand Hand has extensive experience shipping delicate items and can help ensure your gift arrives safely — but it’s something to include in your planning.
Consider Their Space
Space is its own kind of budget. If you’re not sure where the person would put a piece, opt for smaller art or functional pieces.
“Almost everyone has space for a 6x6 inch painting,” says Rachael. “We have pieces as small as 3x3 inches that can fit anywhere.”
Knowing a person’s style and space can allow you to choose more boldly. But if you’re unsure, going small is the safer route.
Step 2: Make It Personal
Buying art isn’t just about the object — it’s about the story it tells.
Go for Beautiful, Useful, and Meaningful. If you can hit all three, you’ve found a perfect gift. But even one or two can make a piece special.
Functional items — like a ceramic mug, a wooden serving bowl, or a handblown tumbler — are great options because the recipient can choose how to use them.
“People who entertain can serve with those pieces,” says Jim. “People who don’t, can use them decoratively.”
Vases are another versatile favorite: they don’t take up much space and work with or without fresh flowers. The Grand Hand even sells ceramic bouquets — beautiful, handmade floral arrangements that never wilt.
Think Beyond the Obvious
You don’t have to give someone a painting of a sailboat just because they like sailing. Instead, consider how a piece might tie you, the recipient, and the artist together.
For example, if the recipient is from Wisconsin and you find a Minnesota-based potter who sources clay from Wisconsin — that’s a three-way connection that turns a bowl into a story.
Be Careful with Collections
If someone collects something — like lighthouses or wooden Santas — it might be tempting to add to their collection. But collections can reach a saturation point.
“Just because someone collects something doesn’t mean they want more of it,” Jim warns. “They may not have the space, or they might have gotten too many of the same thing already.”
What Kind of Art Makes a Good Gift?
The Grand Hand Gallery specializes in functional and fine art created by skilled, often local, artists. Here are some of their best giftable items:
Functional Ceramics
- Handmade mugs
- Ice cream or cereal bowls
- Serving platters and large bowls
- Vases (with or without ceramic flowers)
- Yunomi – a traditional Japanese tea cup, which is small, beautiful, and a favorite among pottery lovers
Woodwork
- Hand-carved wooden salad bowls
- Serving utensils or spoons
- Decorative wood items with practical use
Wall Art (in all sizes)
- Small framed paintings (3x3, 4x4, 5x7 in)
- Needle-felted landscapes
- Ink illustrations and etchings
- Watercolors, oils, and acrylics — many in compact formats that fit any space
Jewelry – Wearable Art
- Unique handmade pieces from local artists
- Items made with lake stones and other natural materials
Handmade Cards
- Hand-painted or hand-drawn greeting cards
- Letterpress or hand-printed designs
- Many are frameable — a meaningful mini artwork for under $15
The Grand Hand Touch
One of the greatest benefits of shopping at The Grand Hand is the personal guidance offered by their knowledgeable staff.
“If someone walks in with a general sense of their budget, we can help guide the selection process,” says Rachael.
They’ve met most of their artists personally and can share stories behind each piece — adding another layer of meaning to your gift.
“But no matter where you buy,” says Jim, “Always remember to gift art that is meaningful and useful.”
Learn more and explore The Grand Hand’s collection at: thegrandhandgallery.com.