5 Reasons to give Vintage Art and Prints for Christmas

 Photo courtesy of interior designer Sarah Vanrenen

It’s that time of year again and the hunt for the perfect Christmas present begins. Most of us like to find something special, thoughtful, and unique for our family and friends. Socks are cosy, tech gadgets are cool, but this year, I’d like to suggest something a bit more timeless and personal—vintage art and prints.

I know what you’re thinking, art, as a present? But stay with me, because vintage art with all its charm is a wonderful surprise under the tree and one that can be tailored to pretty much any personality. Let’s have a look  at why vintage art and prints make the most meaningful Christmas presents and why they’ll make those you love feel extra special this Christmas.

1. The Nostalgic Charm

There’s something magical about vintage art. Whether it’s a mid-century oil or a delicate hand coloured nineteenth century botanical print, vintage pieces have history and a sense of nostalgia, a perfect combo in a Christmas present. Christmas is all about bringing back warm memories, and vintage art does that in the most beautiful way

2. It is Unique and Personal

Forget mass-produced knick-knacks and impersonal bits of plastic; vintage art is the exact opposite. One of the best things about giving art is that it is so personal and individual. You can find paintings of pretty much any subject so a perfect solution for that difficult person you never know how to please.

Does your sister love Paris? A vintage painting of Paris could be the perfect fit.

'Paris Street' signed Macon, oil on canvas in a vintage wood frame. Available on our website; click the image above for more information.

Does your mother in law love gardening? What about a beautiful hand coloured botanical print? They are stunning especially if they are framed in an unusual frame like our beautiful striped or marbled ones.

Hand Coloured Botanical Plate in Poppy-Red, available on our website; click the picture above for more information.

Or maybe your parents adore hiking—find them a painting of a beautiful landscape.

'Hay Harvest' signed Sixten Lindbohm, oil on canvas in a vintage gilt wood frame with linen insert. Available on our website; click the image for more information.

The list is never ending. We have a wonderful collection of Lars Norrman watercolours; Lars travelled widely…Greece, Egypt, Japan, Latin America and his little paintings are perfect present for your Gap Year survivors reminding them of their travels.

No two vintage pieces are alike; each one tells its own story, and finding the right one for someone shows how much thought you put into it.  It’s so much more personal than grabbing a last-minute gift voucher

3. A Dash of Sophistication

Vintage art has an instant “wow” factor. There’s a certain sophistication that comes with owning a beautifully framed piece of art. It elevates a space and adds character and a sense of history in a way which contemporary art just can’t match.

In addition the vintage aesthetic is very versatile. Whether the recipient’s house is ultra-modern or whether it is country house style, or somewhere in between, there’s a piece of art that can complement their style. It’s basically the gift that keeps on giving, brightening up their space long after Christmas is over, and making them think of you every time they see it!

'Autumn Trees' attributed to Gunnar Allvar, 1922-2003, oil on board in a vintage wood frame. Available on our website; click the image for more information.

4. Affordable Luxury

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Art sounds expensive!” But vintage art doesn't have to break the bank, and at Collins and Green Art we try very hard to have a good selection of affordable and decorative paintings and prints. While original contemporary pieces can sometimes carry a hefty price tag, you can often find gorgeous vintage alternatives at very affordable prices. 

 5. Sustainable and Convenient Presents

 In a world where we are all trying to be a bit more eco-conscious, vintage art is a sustainable present choice. In buying vintage pieces you are not contributing to the mass production that often leads to waste. It's the perfect balance of thoughtful and eco-friendly, which adds another layer of meaning to your gift.

We will wrap your present in our signature wrapping and then box it carefully using recycled boxes and bubbles wherever we can. We can then ship all over the world so its the perfect solution for your favourite nephew living in Botswana or your son who has married an Australian and is in Sydney!

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 Plus, if you’re shopping from local antique stores or independent sellers, you’re also supporting small businesses—another feel-good reason to buy vintage this Christmas!

Vintage art is the present that keeps on giving.

 At the end of the day, Christmas is about sharing love and giving presents that come from the heart. Vintage art and prints tick every box—they’re unique, personal, nostalgic, and even eco-friendly. And perhaps the best part? They’re presents that will last. Long after Christmas is over, that painting or print will hang on the wall, a constant reminder of the thought and care you put into finding something truly special.

 'Three Faces', signed Erland Melanton 1916-1968, oil on panel in a vintage wood frame.  Available on our website; click the image for more information. 

So, if you’re on the hunt for a meaningful, individual and  timeless present, consider vintage art. Trust me, it’s a present the recipient will cherish for years to come—and you’ll be known as the most thoughtful present giver in the family. If by chance you get it wrong remember we are very happy to exchange things for you.

'Promenade in the Park' signed Lars Larsson 1912-1971, oil on canvas in a vintage gilt and painted linen frame. Available on our website; click the image for more information.

Happy present hunting, and I hope your Christmas will be filled with wonder, love and ART!

Love from Julia

Founder, Collins and Green Art