Where to Buy Artsy, Unique Gifts for Valentine’s Day

Featured image: Věra Chytilová, Excerpt from “Sedmikrásky [Daisies],” 1966- See it now as part of “Multiple Realities: Experimental Art in the Eastern Bloc, 1960s–1980s.” at the Vancouver Art Gallery

With Valentine’s Day approaching quickly on the calendar, you might be looking for some unique gift/date ideas to mark the occasion. A gallery tour for two, or maybe some art from a local creative—sharing a moment of inspiration can be a fantastic means of furthering your connection. Of course, if you happen to be single at the time of this writing, then why not take the day to practice a bit of self-love? Broaden your perspective and challenge yourself, we say! Plus, it will be 50% cheaper, obviously—it’s just basic economics! So whatever you plan to do, start with these arty ideas and take it from there. Valentine’s doesn’t have to be some cheesy cliche, with a bit of help from local culture and creativity, you can make this Feb 14th one to remember, whatever your situation might be.

With an inspiring prompt from one of Surrey’s top art hubs, you can build your connection and express your artistic side all at once. Choose from a drawing course or pottery workshop where instructors will lead you online and provide their artist’s insight about how to best mine your imagination. Pick up supplies from the gallery and get ready for a one-of-a-kind art date!

If you’re going to give a bouquet, do it with some style!

With all kinds of inspiring gifts and arrangements to give, the floral artists at Fleurs D’epargne never fail to impress. Working within a living medium like flowers can admittedly be challenging, but the vibrant displays here will ensure your Valentine that your special bond will never wilt.

Photo Credit: fleursdepargne.com

As if French pastries weren’t already high art, Chef Elena Krasnova elevates her ingredients into edible masterpieces. This renowned bakery has been wowing area sweet tooths since opening in 2017. Their current Valentine’s collection of sweets is the perfect gesture to give someone who loves a bit of sweetness with their inspiration.

Photo Credit: monparis.ca

Instead of giving a traditional Valentine’s card that might end up in the bin, why not give a customizable one they can wear for years? Make touts itself as “the most creative gift store in the universe,” and a quick look at its creative embroidering options shows that it definitely might be in the running for the title. With custom clothing, patches, and homeware, you can tailor your gift to match your giftee’s tastes or choose among the countless featured designs.

Photo Credit: makevancouver.com

If you’re ever in need of a conversation starter, then look no further than Vancouver Art Gallery! VAG’s stellar programming consistently gives art goers something to talk about, whether it’s with exhibitions, workshops, or their renowned gift shop. The gift of a yearly membership will give you and your partner plenty of new ideas to discuss!

The Cross is a Yaletown gift and home furnings business that you can always count on to find that special something for someone special. While you could easily just head there and peruse the floor for unique gift ideas, we recommend this international poetry book. A remarkable anthology of pieces about healing and spirituality, this collection would make an excellent gift for finding inspiration throughout the day. The short nature of each entry means they can act as tiny little pockets of clarity and introspection regardless of how packed your giftee’s schedule is.

Photo Credit: thecrossdesign.com

With $30 off memberships, when you buy two at once, the Audain encourages you to experience their wonderful gallery together. Home to an incredible collection of Indigenous pieces, this local art destination would make for a fantastic addition to a Whistler day trip itinerary. With a calendar full of local and international artists, there’s always something new to see when you visit.

Photo Credit: audainartmuseum.com