Every year, the holiday season invites us to think about giving—gifts that are meaningful, thoughtful, and maybe even a little inspiring. This year, I wanted to put together a small collection of some of my favorite things: art supplies I rely on, artists I admire and love to support, and charities that are close to my heart. These are gifts that celebrate creativity, connection, and purpose.

Whether you are shopping for a maker, an art lover, or someone who simply appreciates beauty in everyday life, I hope this guide inspires a little extra joy this season.

Artists I love

Supporting artists is one of my favorite ways to give. Here are a few friends, colleagues, and creatives whose work I admire—and whose pieces would make beautiful, personal gifts:

 

Lisa Glickman

My sister-in-law, Lisa, paints and draws stunning human and pet portraits. You can see her work on her Instagram page @lkglickman.art

 

 

Erica Dorrepaal

My neighbor in Gore, Erica, recently bought herself a kiln and is creating beautiful pottery pieces. The perfect host or hostess gift this season! 
See all of her work here.

 

Victoria Mayol

A dear friend from Argentina, Victoria paints serene beach scenes and also taught me portrait painting at the Sarasota Art Museum. We are both represented by State of the Arts Gallery in Sarasota. Her work is vibrant and beautiful. You can learn more about her and her art over on Instagram: @vigmayol

 

 

Kelly Norgate

Artist and former marketing collaborator, Kelly now lives in PEI with her husband, goats, chickens, and dogs. She creates art inspired by everyday life and everyday objects. Check out her adventures on her Instagram: @arcadia_art_studio

 

 

Bernice Kelly

I met Bernice through Anthropologie, and we shared a pop-up studio at Miami Art Basel. She now lives in Ireland but continues to create beautiful pieces. Shop her full collection at Saatchi Art and follow her on Instagram to see all of her new artworks. 

 

 

Susan Maddux

Susan creates sculptural artworks with many references, ranging from kimonos or capes to totems or vessels for energetic beings, but they're not quite like anything you've ever seen. You can follow along with her art journey on her Instagram page @susanmadduxstudio

 

 

Florence Balducci

Florence is an illustrator specializing in vintage 1930s-inspired drawings. Her artwork is detailed and intriguing. You can watch more of her process on her Instagram @florence_balducci

 

 

Marjolein Dallinga

Marjolein's artwork is an adventure in the world of textiles that specializes in the art of felting. She creates unique costumes and accessories designed and made for clients such as the film industry, Cirque du Soleil and theatre. You can check out her website or Instagram for more.

 

 

Deanne Fitzpatrick

Based in Nova Scotia, Deanne sells top-quality rug hooking supplies and kits, perfect for beginners or seasoned artists. Her website provides anything and everything you could need to hook your own rug. Check her out on Instagram @deannefitzpatrickhookingrugs

 

 

Lise Gallant

Lise is an artist and illustrator capturing the everyday charm of her pets Tyson and Lucy while also offering commissioned pieces. You can see her work on Instagram or buy her book, Lucy and Tyson, on Amazon.

 

Art supplies I love and use

There are a few staples in my studio that I reach for again and again. If you’re shopping for the maker in your life, these are gifts that will get used and loved.

Golden Paint

Rich, versatile acrylics for all artists from beginner to pro. 
Explore their entire collection here. 

 

Liquitex Acrylics

Another favorite brand for vibrant, reliable color.
Liquitex has a full collection of art supplies. You can find them all here. 

 

Nomad Crafts Journal

A beautifully leather-bound journal with handmade paper, perfect for painting, sketching, or mixed media. They offer affordable journals for creatives of all kinds. Shop their full collection here. 

 

 

Custom Built Canvases from Support Surface

The perfect foundation for painting.
Click here to check out their website.

 

 

Professional Easels

Both DeSerres (Canada) and Blick (USA) offer sturdy, adjustable easels for any artist. It gives you the flexibility to paint horizontal or vertical!

 

Charities worth supporting

Giving back is one of the most meaningful ways to celebrate the season. These are some of the organizations I personally support and have worked with before that you might consider donating to or gifting on behalf of a loved one:

SPCA - Protecting animals and providing care for those in need.

Save the Children – Supporting children’s health, education, and safety worldwide.

Chez Doris – A women’s shelter in Montreal providing support and resources. 

Red Cross – Providing emergency assistance and disaster relief.

 

A season for giving

This year, consider gifts that inspire, connect, and uplift. Whether it’s a painting from an artist you love, a professional-grade art supply, or a donation to a meaningful cause, these gifts carry intention and heart.

Wishing you a holiday season full of creativity, beauty, and the joy of sharing art with those you love.