Have you seen that episode of Friends, where Phoebe has that awful 3D lady artwork, and Rachel and Monica don’t want to upset her, so they tell her they love it? Only to realise their mistake when they’re gifted terrifying artwork of their own? Well, buying art for a friend or loved one doesn’t have to be quite that traumatic. But, it can be if you get it wrong.

Art can be a lovely gift. It’s a great way to show someone that you care and to give them something special. But art is very personal. Your tastes aren’t necessarily the same as your friends’, and sometimes we’re surprised by what our friends and family like. It’s easy to get wrong, and the last thing that you want is to buy someone something that they hate.

Look at their décor and existing artwork

One of the best ways to find out more about what they like is to look at what they have already. Even if they don’t have an original piece, look at prints as well as other décor choices that they’ve made, and accessories that they have added to their homes. Even their fashion choices will give you a clear idea of what kind of colours and themes they like, as well as how traditional, quirky, unique or fashionable they are. Are they someone who plays things safe with matching shades and soft neutrals? Or someone that prefers to experiment with colour and isn’t scared of clashing?

Go to galleries together

Visiting galleries together is a great way to get a better understanding of how they feel about art. Spend an afternoon at an art gallery, exploring and talking about how the artworks make you feel. Share your tastes with them, and ask questions about theirs. You can still Buy Mr Brainwash Art for Sale on Deodato.co.uk and look at online galleries later.

Choose something small

Art is always a risk, and the more substantial the artwork, the bigger the risk. Both in terms of how much money you’re spending and how much the recipient will enjoy it. Buy a large piece and it might only fit in certain areas of their home. They might feel obliged to display it in a prime area, even if they aren’t keen. This could be irksome.

Get something small, and you give them options. The artwork that you’ve chosen will fit in many different areas of their home. They might be able to find a room where it fits in well or, at least, a more discreet place to display it.

Remember, it’s not for you or your home

We’re all guilty of buying presents that we like, instead of thinking about what our friends and family will love. You might have similar tastes in some things, but you still need to remind yourself of who you’re shopping for. If there’s something that you like, that you think would look great in your home, don’t buy it for your friend. Make a note of it, and return to buy it for yourself at a later date. Or take a look at other pieces by the same artist. While you’re shopping for your friend or family member, try to suppress your own tastes and wants.

Avoid themes

Buying art for a Christmas gift doesn’t mean that the work has to have a festive theme or even festive colours. Nor does buying art as a wedding present mean that its theme must be love. Themes can be a bit naff and wildly limit your options. Themed art also means that it might be appreciated when it’s received, but what about in the ensuing years? Try to avoid themes, instead concentrating on finding artwork that will last, and even grow in value as time goes by.

Trust your instincts

Most of the time, we make mistakes and buy the wrong things because we question ourselves. We see something that we’re immediately drawn to, so we have a feeling that our friend would love it. But, instead of buying in there and then, we take the time to look at other options and to think about it. During this time we start to question ourselves and doubt slips in. Nine times out of ten, your instincts are right. Trust them.

Don’t ask for too many opinions

Asking for help can be a great idea. If you’re looking for a gift for your best friend, asking their partner for advice, or for their ideas can be a great way to get a second opinion. But don’t ask too many people. Suddenly you’ll have loads of conflicting advice, and it will be almost impossible to find something that matches everyone’s opinions. Ask one person for advice if you think you need backup. Don’t even tell anyone else what you’re looking for. If there’s one thing that is going to block your instincts, it’s other people’s opinions.

Consider a gift voucher

If you’re really stuck, perhaps you’ve found a great gallery or store, or even an artist that you’re sure your friend would love, but you don’t feel confident about any particular piece, or you don’t want to take a risk, a gift voucher can be a fantastic option. It still gifts them art. You just don’t have to make a choice. Buy a greeting card or postcard from the gallery or artist, and slip the gift card or voucher in the envelope with it for a lovely gesture.

Or even a framed print

Framed prints are cheaper, less of a risk and still look great in the home. A smaller framed print gives your friend a chance to experiment with what they like, without you risking wasting a large sum of money on an unloved work.

Don’t be offended if you never see your gift again

If you get it wrong, wouldn’t you rather your friend tell you, or even return the artwork without telling you, than feel forced to display the piece? Don’t be offended if you get it wrong, art is massively personal and it’s always tough, even when you know someone very well.

Of course, another option is simply asking them. Ask what they like, who their favourite artist is and even what they’d like to receive as a gift. It might not be a surprise, but at least you’ll know that your gift will be appreciated.

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