Recently, my wife asked me to send her an email of gift ideas—for myself. My birthday is coming up and she wanted an idea of the sorts of things I might be interested in. So I compiled a quick list and sent it off. Then, I got to thinking… with Christmas coming, there are probably others trying to think of a gift for a creative person in their life. So, to lend a helping hand, I’ve compiled a more detailed list.
Books, clothing, DVD's, music,... there are many choices. Here's a list of my top ten to get you started. What works for you will depend on your loved one, but this should give you some ideas (in no particular order).
Sagmeister: Made You Look
This book is from 2001, so have a quick look and make sure it isn't on your loved one's bookshelf already. It's a look at the graphic design work of Stefan Sagmeister, one of the most well known, and definitely one of the most interesting graphic designers working today.
Eye Magazine
Eye Magazine is a design quarterly out of the UK. It was started in 1990 by Rick Poynor and continues to be one of the most well-written design magazines out there. It's not cheap, as magazines go, but it would make a very nice gift. Their Winter issue isn't out yet, but you can probably find the Autumn issue.
Posters by Aesthetic Apparatus
Design, music and craft come together in the work of Minneapolis' Aesthetic Apparatus. They produce a variety of design work for a number of clients, but they are most known for their limited edition, hand-screened rock posters—a nice way to add a touch of colour to any wall.
'Swash' Buckle from Veer
'Swash' buckle... clever eh? It's too bad Pirates of the Caribbean came out over summer and is a little old now, otherwise I could work in a timely pirate joke of some sort. Anyway, the buckle is pretty sweet and it can be picked up at Veer.
Artemide Tolomeo Basculante Table Lamp
A good table lamp is always a nice idea and experience tells me that Artemide lamps are top notch. They're not cheap, but they should last a lifetime. The classic Tolomeo is undoubtedly more well known, but I really like the elegance of the Basculante's parchment diffuser.
Helvetica (the movie)
An in-depth look at one of the most commonly used typefaces today. Helvetica is everywhere: AmericanAirlines, Crate & Barrel, American Apparel, Knoll... The movie traces its history, discusses its purpose and gives the opinion of big-name folks in the graphic design world. In my opinion, it's worth the price of admission just to watch the segment with Erik Spiekerman
Jewelboxing Kit
If your loved one needs to deliver their reel or demo in a professional looking package, consider the Jewelboxing system by the fine folks at Coudal Partners. It's a CD/DVD packaging system that allows a person to design and print the packaging themselves. The kit includes pre-perforated paper ready for the desktop printer, the plastic jewel cases and software templates to assist in the design.
Music
Find a creative person that doesn't like music... you can't do it, it's impossible. Music is a no-brainer, but choosing which music can get a little tricky. If you know what they like, head on down to your local record store and get down to business. If you're not sure, play it safe and get an iTunes gift card, that way they can make the choice themselves.
A Shirt from Threadless
Threadless produces limited edition t-shirts that are designed by artists from around the world. Artists submit their work, the public votes and the winners get printed. It's an ingenious way of running a business and the shirts can be damn nice. They're a fan-fave among creatives, but you have to be quick because they can sell out fast.
Pentagram 2008 Typography Calendar
In all honesty, I'm not really a wall calendar guy myself, but for those that do like them, the Pentagram Typography Calendar is a fine choice. I've seen the 33"x22" 2007 version in the flesh and it looks damn nice on a big wall. Throw in some big black markers and you're set.
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