Ho-ho-holidays! The Sardy House tree has been lit, indicating a sure sign that holiday season is in full swing here in Aspen. Now it's time to bring out the Santa in all of us by spreading the holiday cheer with checking off everyone's wish list. Forget the big name brands this year and shop local! The gift shops in local museum and art centers in Aspen house some of the most unique and rare gift options that your loved ones are sure to remember far after the holiday season ends. Below are our top three choices for shopping local this season in Aspen:
Looking for the quintessential Aspen gift? Head to the Aspen Historical Society (AHS) and check out their catalog of more than 10,000 iconic Roaring Fork Valley images. Once you’ve found your top picks, AHS will frame the pictures for a wonderful keepsake. In order to be ready by Christmas, local residents need to order by Dec. 17 and out-of-town need to order by Dec. 12. In addition to the historic images, AHS also carries locally, handmade ornaments, local books and Ute jewelry.
From jewelry to books to artist-designed products, the new Aspen Art Museum’s gift shop is a one-stop shop for checking off holiday wish lists! For those looking to spruce up their living space, check out Mattia Biagi’s crater bronze vases. Set sail and soar on the wind with a Sailing Ship Kite, made in collaboration with Balinese artisans exclusively for Haptic Lab from locally sourced bamboo and nylon. For the adventurer, travel the world with MAPS by Aleksandra and Daniel Mizieliński. This book of maps is a visual feast for all ages with lavishly drawn illustrations. To purchase gifts online from the gift shop click here.
The Anderson Ranch ArtWorks Store offers a variety of moderately priced art from the work of Ranch artists as well as art supplies, clothing and books. Featured items in the slideshow include ceramic wall sculptures from Sarah Ransford made in Aspen and ceramic objects from Michael Wisner made in Woody Creek.