Unusual Gift Idea

Gift ideas are always difficult as you have limited time to think and, for most of us, limited time to shop. Trying to find something that is unique is not easy, especially before Christmas where everything is bulk created and one object looks the same as the next.

African gifts generally have a bit of a reputation for being tourist like, with certain objects such as ostrich eggs, being over done. However, a new innovation is stirring and moving from the East of Africa. Artists are creating and sculpturing items or art that are both unique and creative.

Gone are the boring African sculptures, new ones are being created. Beautifully crafted abstract art is being made with stone, wood, and pottery. Plain ostrich eggs are being turned into delicately and intrigue crafted into candleholders, with shapes marked into the eggshell.

By doing this, the light from the flame shines through the holes created an aura effect of atmosphere on the walls and surrounding areas around the candle. Pottery has also taken a turn for the best. Clay pots are being replaced with brightly crafted bowls and ashtrays. Detailed designs are crafted on animal sculptures, bringing the simple glazed pottery to life.

Christmas decorations take on a new twist with abstract and exotic coloured sculptures bringing renewed life to the traditional nativity scene. Beautifully crafted bookends with rhino and geckos created in dark stone can be easily acquired. Cushion designs, made with simple black and white prints add beauty to any lounge, bedroom or seating area.

While a gorgeously coloured table cloth with a variety of colours and prints will be the center of attention and bring joy and light to the room. Vases are always a good way to go, especially ones that look exquisite with flowers in or on their own. African art is truly expanding beyond the barriers of tradition, experimenting and bringing their culture to a new level.

Geckos and chameleons made out of recycled tin are attractive for both the garden and indoors. Not only is the art a statement for the environment, but also because of the material it low maintenance. Each is individually made ensuring that each piece is special and unique for it’s owner.

An expansive gift would be the beginning of a gecko collection, with not only painted tin, but also book holders and a divine candleholder as well. The candleholder is a diamond shaped piece of dark wood with a highly detailed crafted gecko in between the two candleholders, sculptured into the wood.

Due to the style, quality and individuality of African created art, it guarantees the perfect gift for a loved one, whether it is their birthday, Christmas or even just as a means of “why not”. The detail is exquisite and there is an item for all types of interior styles.

Celeste writes for Places a Far who specialize in beautiful handcrafted African crafts.