Gallery: 11 Gifts for the Artist in Your Life, Starving or Otherwise
Yasutomo0101-Yasutomo-Sumi-Ink-(manufacturer-photo)
Sumi-e is a centuries-old Japanese art style that uses dark black ink to create serene paintings. While Yasutomo has only been around since the 1950s, it makes a [sumi ink](http://www.jerrysartarama.com/discount-art-supplies/sumi-e-supplies/yasutomo-sumi-e-supplies/yasutomo-sumi-e-inks-and-grinding-stone.htm) ($5) that is known for its fluidity and producing smooth brushstrokes. With this ink, you'll be painting perfect ensōs in no time.
Momastore0202-Creatibles-Clay-Eraser-Set-(manufacturer-photo)
Everyone makes mistakes, but using a boring eraser shouldn't be one of them. [Creatibles' clay eraser set](https://www.momastore.org/museum/moma/ProductDisplay_Clay%20Eraser%20Set%20of%2012_10451_10001_202290_-1_26698_16152_202331) ($12) comes complete with several bright colors so you can build your pencil the perfect companion. Just don't get too attached to your creation if you plan on using it for its intended purpose.
General0303-General's-Charcoal-Pencil-(manufacturer-photo)
Drawing with charcoal pencils is a good way to learn how to be creative without color. [General's set](http://www.amazon.com/General-Pencil-Charcoal-Kit-12-Piece/dp/B000AMPCNS) ($13) comes with several black charcoal pencils, a white charcoal pencil, and black and white charcoal sticks. It's useful regardless if you are a charcoal novice, or shading expert.
Fabriano0404-Fabriano-Artist-Journal-(manufacturer-photo)
A high quality artist's journal isn't just a sketchbook, it's a portfolio of an artist's work. Fabriano's journals are made with premium paper that works great with ink, pencil, or pastels. Just make sure your art is worthy of these handsome pages. [Find a store](http://savoirfaire.com/store-locations/).
530505-53-Pencil-(manufacturer-photo)
If you know someone who draws on their iPad Air or iPad mini, help them take it to the next level with the [53 Pencil](http://www.fiftythree.com/pencil) ($50). Use the Pencil with a compatible app like Paper or Adobe Illustrator Draw and you can take advantage of cool features (eraser, palm rejection) and the responsiveness of the buttery-smooth nib.
Mark Leary0606-Mark-Leary-Mobile-(manufacturer-photo)
Not all mobiles belong hanging above a crib. Art mobiles (like the ones made famous by Alexander Calder) can add a sophisticated touch to all sorts of rooms. Because they hang from the ceiling, there's bound to be a spot for one in your home. When you need some inspiration, just lie on your back and watch them dangle in the air. [Mark Leary's mobiles](https://www.etsy.com/shop/MarkLearyMobiles?page=1) are handsome, and cost $75 and up.
Bellacor0707-Authentic-Models-Artist-Model-(manufacturer-photo)
Not all artists can have nude models posing for them every time they are recreating depicting the human form, sometimes a wooden artist model does the trick. But even if you don't use an artist model for your artwork, they make for an excellent desk-sized companion. The dark oak finish of [this artist model](http://www.bellacor.com/productdetail/authentic-models-mg008f-artist-model-680699.htm) ($120) makes other models pale in comparison.
Jerry's Artarama0808-SoHo-Easel-(manufacturer-photo)
If you're going to be serious about painting, it's time to upgrade your easel. This easel by [SoHo Urban Artist](http://www.jerrysartarama.com/discount-art-supplies/easels/studio-easels/soho-studio-easels/h-frame-studio-easel.htm) ($140) can adjust to various heights and has a shelf for paints or brushes. The wheels on the bottom provide easy movement when you need it, and lock so the easel stays stable during aggressive brushstrokes.
Wacom0909-Wacom-Bamboo-Spark-(manufacturer-photo)
Wacom makes a few computer input tablets that are great for making art, but sometimes it's hard to adjust to drawing on a screen. [The Bamboo Spark](http://www.wacom.com/en-us/products/mobile-accessories/bamboo-spark) ($160) uses paper as a medium, but thanks to the smart pen and folio, your paper and pen drawings are transferred over to your device. If you have the compatible app, you can continue working on your drawings once they're on your phone or iPad.
ONA1010-ONA-Bowery-bag-for-Leica-(manufacturer-photo)
If you're buying a gift for a photographer, odds are they already have a fancy camera. So why not get them a fancy camera bag? Bag manufacturer ONA teamed up with Leica to make a [camera bag](https://www.onabags.com/store/messenger-bags/the-bowery.html?color=antique-cognac-leica) worthy of its high quality cameras. The $279 bag is constructed out of full-grain leather that in itself is worth taking pictures of.
Josh Valcarcel/WIRED1111-iPad-Pro-(wired-photo)
The [iPad Pro](http://www.apple.com/ipad-pro/) may not be a gift for artists only, but it was engineered with professional designers in mind. With accessories like the Apple Pencil ($99) and apps from Adobe, you can use the device to create digital masterpieces. Or, you know, just watch movies in bed. $799 and up.
