Your ultimate Christmas gift guide: Support local creators and artists by gifting something unique

05 Dec 2024

Short on Christmas present ideas? There’s always last-minute shopping to do or someone on the Christmas list a little tricky to buy for, so here are some unique, handmade gifts from local creatives, artists and businesses.

Sustainable art

Glen Turner, a self-taught artist based in Christchurch, works from The Lobe, a creative hub in the city centre. Using recycled and locally sourced timbers from Canterbury, Glen transforms salvaged materials into striking, sustainable artworks.

Each piece tells a unique story, incorporating wood reclaimed from post-earthquake demolitions, family renovations and discarded furniture. Glen’s organic process skips traditional sketches, instead embracing the natural hues and textures of the timber - seen here in the rich, earthy tones of Resene Possessed, Resene Jurassic, Resene Blackjack, Resene Marshland, Resene Mangrove, Resene Field Day and Resene Half Rivergum.

By reimagining forgotten materials, Glen’s art celebrates the timeless beauty of nature and craftsmanship, offering a meaningful, eco-conscious addition to any space. See more of his artwork at Studio Three Two Four.

Festive hampers 

Anna King, a creative enthusiast with a passion for floral art and nature, has crafted delightful Christmas hampers perfect for the season. Using Resene testpots, including the rich green shade Resene Tom Thumb, Anna paints each box with care. Lined with plastic and floral foam, the boxes are filled with festive treasures like baubles, succulents, nuts, seed heads and flowers. These unique creations are designed to bring joy and last for weeks, making them a thoughtful and sustainable gift option. 

Find more of Anna’s creative work and workshops on her Facebook page, Anna King Creative. 

Branching out 

These Koru earrings are a vibrant and unique gift. Made from Rimu wood, they are laser cut, and hand painted in Resene Limeade with stunning, intricate detailing. Since 2010, Natty has been crafting and selling unique, handmade products. The range includes beautiful Rimu jewellery, hand-printed textiles, illustrated gift cards, stationery and homeware, all designed and made in New Zealand. 

Inspired by native NZ flora, fauna and New Zealand’s natural beauty, Natty is committed to sustainability and celebrates the environment with designs that are both meaningful and subtly Kiwi. Drawing from popular culture, personal memories and humour, Natty creates playful illustrations to bring joy. Their Rimu jewellery and paper goods proudly carry the Kiwi trademark as part of the Buy NZ Made Campaign. 

See more designs and gifts from Natty here.  

A brighter summer

Creator of Canadiana, Wayne Gibson, has brought a touch of Canadian and North American charm home with his vibrant Adirondack chairs. Inspired by the stunning designs he encountered while skiing at Whiteface Mountain in Canada, Wayne has reimagined these iconic pieces for local tastes and lifestyles as more of us embrace the comfort and style of these classic outdoor chairs. 

With colours like Resene Turbo, Resene Dizzy Lizzy, Resene Smashing and Resene Surfs Up (featured), Canadiana furniture makes the perfect gift that will brighten up anyone’s outdoor space year-round.  

Contact Wayne on 027 493 5163 or online.  

Art lovers 

Blending his passion for music, Bauhaus-inspired designs and sustainability, artist Glynn Berland creates striking pieces using recycled vinyl records, painted wood and Resene paints. Each artwork, featuring vibrant hues like Resene Resolution Blue and Resene Tree Frog, is carefully crafted and framed to evoke nostalgia and depth. Glynn’s process integrates digital designs, laser cutting and hand assembly, with a commitment to eco-friendly practices, including repurposing materials into coasters and guitar picks. Inspired by his 1980s childhood, Glynn offers both ready-made and custom designs, celebrating creativity and collaboration.  

Contact Glynn about getting your own custom piece and see more of his work online.  

Upcycled gifting 

Transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary, artist Lynda Cree breathes new life into furniture and homewares through her vibrant decoupage creations. Using Resene paints like Resene Black White and Resene Poppy, paired with materials like wallpaper and stencils, Lynda crafts whimsical, richly detailed pieces bursting with colour and personality. From mermaid vases to dragon cabinets, each of Lynda’s works showcases her distinctive flair and imaginative vision and are the perfect one-of-a-kind gift for a loved one. Explore her creations at Re-loved Cree-ations. 

If you or someone you know has a local business using Resene paints, stains or wallpapers, get in touch at [email protected]. 

Published: 05 Dec 2024