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The 2020 Museum Store Holiday Gift Guide: Staff Picks

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art will be closed Monday, May 13, to prepare for the visit of Antiques Roadshow. We will return to normal hours of operation Wednesday, May 15.

Photo by Ironside Photography / Stephen Ironside.

The holidays are a perfect time to stop by the Museum Store at Crystal Bridges! There are so many unique gifts to choose from and with events like Museum Store Sunday (November 29) and Member Double Discount Days (December 11-14), you’re guaranteed to find the perfect gift while saving.

Our Museum Store staff have shared their favorite gift items for the 2020 holiday and would love to help with your holiday shopping. Learn about some of their favorite gifts below and think of the person in your life who would be a great fit for each gift.

 

The Short Story of Art: A Pocket Guide to Key Movements, Works, Themes, and Techniques by Susie Hodge 

$19.99

Bob’s Pick: This is a fantastic introduction to art appreciation. The book is divided into four sections: Movements, the Works, Themes, and Techniques. Each entry in the Works section consists of two pages with one being a full page of each work. The other sections provide a concise summary with a page per entry. 

 

Susan Tinker Silk Scarves

$85

Cary’s Pick: Susan dyes her silk scarves with only the best French dyes. I like simple clothing choices, but I love it when my accessories add a little “surprise” and creativity to my outfit. There’s no better way to do that than with these scarves! Each has its own vibrant color and pattern which definitely makes them an heirloom piece. They can be hand washed and ironed damp.   

 

Poppy Dot Co. Earrings

$15-$30

Christina’s Pick: The earring colors are endless with unique shapes and sizes. I think they’re beautiful earrings for any occasion, but the perfect earring to feel empowered to take on the day!

 

Cohasset Molten Glass Vessels and Candle Holders

$35-$137

Diana’s Pick: These make great gifts because they’re so unique and versatile. They can be used for plants, candles, or even as fish bowls! There are a variety of sizes and no two are alike, making them perfect for any decor. 

 

Sari Deer 

$45-$200

Gabriela’s Pick: These deer are a fun way to brighten up any holiday decor! Each is made from recycled saris and is uniquely beautiful with its own colors and pattern arrangement.

 

Art Oracles: Creative & Life Inspirations From the Great Artists

$16.99

Hannah’s Pick: When I’m under stress, I often think, “What would Joseph Beuys say about this?” Now I don’t have to wonder. This set of oracle cards has 50 different artists in it, and a bit of advice for three of the major parts of life: Life, Work, and Inspiration. Produced in a Rider-Waite artwork style, you can consult with such artists as Marina Abramovic, Orlan, and even Pablo Picasso. $16.99 is a small price to pay for such a privilege.

 

Doug Stowe Boxes 

$45-$750

Lee’s Pick: Talk about win-win. Not only are Doug Stowe wooden, hand-carved boxes handsome AND functional, but they will blend in beautifully in any decor. All your items will be so much happier nestled in a Doug Stowe box.

 

Cloth Lullaby: The Woven Life of Louise Bourgeois by Amy Novesky, illustrated by Isabelle Arsenault 

$18.95

Lisa’s Pick: This is a wonderful book to give to children for the holidays or a birthday. It tells the story of Louise Bourgeois, the artist of the large spider sculpture, Maman, at Crystal Bridges. The book intertwines a story featuring Louise’s life and how the spider reminds her of her mother, a tapestry weaver. It shows how Louise the child will grow to become an artist that uses all of her childhood memories to create art. Cloth Lullaby is written by Amy Novesky, with beautiful illustrations by Isabelle Arsenault. It’s good for children ages 2 to Kindergarten. 

 

Klaus Bosch Sand Art 

$30-$125

Makenna’s Pick: This is a great gift for all ages! There are many different sizes, shapes, and colors to choose from. Sand art is a good decoration and/or something that’s satisfying and calming to watch. 

 

Little Mountain Bindery Fillion 

$41-$97

Sutton’s Pick: I am obsessed with these. I have one and it has been a lifesaver for me! Seriously, I love mine so much that I bought my sister one. I’m able to hold my planner (what a waste for 2020) and different notebooks (there are a lot) in one place. Fillions are stylish, come in different colors and sizes, tri-fold or bi-fold, and can be customized in a way that fits you! Moleskine Cahier Journals and other softcover planners and journals fit into them, too! A perfect way to journal 2020 angst, while planning for 2021. 

 

Crystal Bridges Museum Store is open Wednesday-Friday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday-Monday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Purchases can also be made over the phone by calling 479.657.2310.