If you’re wondering what to get for the young artist in your life, look no further. I have created a list of gifts that I think they will love. Every item on the list has been tested by me and my students, who range in age of 8-18. Sorry, I don’t have any items on the list for the younger artists in your life, but maybe I’ll make a future post for them some time. And even though I created this list with kids in mind, most adults will love to use many of them as well. I know I do!
I absolutely love Doug DuBosque How to Draw books. I use them in my studio to teach beginners about construction drawing and how to “build” a complex drawing by first simplifying it. Lots of how to draw books leave you with cartoon looking figures, but DuBosque’s drawings have a higher level of realism. If they need some pencils, I suggest a full Faber-Castell set. I also recommend this two-step sharpener, and my students go crazy for this Faber-Castell eraser pencil.
For the colored pencils, I recommend Derwent Coloursoft colored pencils. They are softer than regular colored pencil and the colors look richer on the paper. They come in sets ranging from 6-72 and you can even get the fancy wooden box. Make sure they also have a pencil sharpener meant for colored pencils. I like the Prismacolor sharpener.
For the beginning watercolor enthusiast, I like Derwent watercolor pencils because they are easier to control. Simply use them like regular colored pencils, and then paint over them with a damp brush and PRESTO! They turn into watercolor! They come in sets of 6-72, with a wooden box option. Some water brushes like these Pentel Aquash brushes would compliment this set nicely.
For the experienced painters in your life, try upgrading them to some Rosemary & Co brushes. I haven’t tried all their brushes, but they have reviews on their website. I have been using the Master’s Choice long flats and the Eclipse long filberts and love them.
My next recommendation I have not personally tried, but one of my students has one and loves it. They are the Max Factory Figma Archetype next male and female action figures. They come in grey and flesh tones and they’re way better than the traditional wooden art models that we all know. And if you want to take it to the next level, throw in this Bandai Tamashii Stage ACT Trident Plus Figure Set.
And last, but certainly not least, give your little artist the gift of regular art lessons so they can develop their skills, build confidence, and develop new friendships with other artistic classmates. If you live in Austin or the surrounding areas, I am currently accepting registrations for the spring and summer semesters and would be happy to see your child’s smiling face in my class.
That’s my list! I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season, and don’t forget to create! If you want suggestions on what to get the older artists, read the second part of my art gift suggestions here.
Happy Holidays!
Amanda
(featured painting “Jolly Postman” by Norman Rockwell, 1949)
