Choosing the right gift for someone can be challenging. While there are endless options for buying something generic or giving a gift card, those items lack the sentiment of something handcrafted and personal. If you really want to show someone how much you care, give them the gift of a custom art piece.
Custom illustrations are the best option for creating a truly personal and meaningful gift. Here's how you can give the best illustrations as a gift to your friends and loved ones.
1. Choose the Subject Matter
Art is meant to spark an emotional reaction in the viewer. When crafting an illustration for someone you care about, consider what things mean the most to them— then choose the subject matter of your illustration.
The subject of your image could be anything from the recipient's dog to a photo of the two of you together. The idea is to choose something intentional that will make an impact when the person opens it, and every time they see it after.
2. Capture a High-Quality Reference Image
Whether you're recreating an original image or creating something new and unique, having high-quality reference photos is a must. To get the photos you need to create an original illustration, you might need to get creative. For example, if you need photos of your best friend's face, find some ideas for trendy female selfie poses and ask her to pose with you for Instagram.
Having photos of the subject from different angles will help an artist create a more realistic depiction of the person or place.
3. Choose the Right Medium
Next, choose the right medium and presentation for your friend. If you're creating a DIY illustration, it's best to stick with what you know or work to hone your skills before approaching this project. If you're working with an artist, the options are endless.
Some fun illustration ideas to consider include:
A comic book
A triptych
A series of photos
A charcoal drawing
Watercolor
Line art
Digital animation
The medium and delivery you choose will set the tone for the illustration. Keep in mind that the goal is to tell a story, whether you're working with a postcard-sized illustration or a full comic book spread.
4. Consider Their Style and Decor Preferences
If your goal is to have this gift displayed proudly by the recipient, you'll need to consider their style and decor preferences. If your friend is quite formal and prefers chic, elegant decor, an animated caricature probably isn't the right fit.
If you're not sure of the recipient's style preferences, choose something neutral that will fit with any decor style.
5. Work with a Skilled Artist
If you're an artist who wants to create an illustration for your friend or family member, that's great. If, however, you lack the skills to bring your idea to reality, you'll need to work with a skilled artist.
Look for an artist on Tellinga who fits your preferred art style, and work with them to create something amazing. You can find everything from caricature artists to sketch style artists.
6. Add a Personal Note
Adding a personal note is a beautiful way to add context and meaning to your gift. If you've selected a cherished memory, write about what that experience meant to you and how grateful you are to have shared it with the recipient. If you gift them an illustration of their pet, tell them how great they are as a pet parent.
A personal note is a cherry on top of a beautiful custom gift. It doesn't have to be eloquent or detailed; just keep it short, simple, and sweet.
7. Perfect Your Delivery
Finally, consider how you'll get the illustrated gift to the person on your list. Receiving and opening a gift is a part of the experience. If you work with an artist, ask them how they package and send the illustration, and if they can send it directly to the person.
Add to the encounter by choosing nice packaging and creating an unboxing experience. There's something to be said for receiving a gift in the mail, especially in the digital age.
With this simple guide, you can give the gift of a beautiful illustration to your friend or loved one. This sentimental present is guaranteed to make them smile for years to come.