Gifts Under $500 Curated by the Bluethumb Art Team
Looking for a gift that’s personal, thoughtful, and truly unforgettable? Art is more than just décor; it’s a way to celebrate someone’s personality, mark a memory, or bring joy into their everyday life. Our team at Bluethumb has each shared their top art picks under $500. From bold abstracts to nostalgic still lifes, read on to see how our staff would style the pieces on their wishlist and discover why art makes the perfect gift.
Why this artwork?
The pigment in this painting by Emily Roser is delicious. I love flowers, so the size, scale, colour palette and subject matter are all chef’s kiss to me. It reflects my love of colour and my draw toward art that makes a statement rather than playing it safe.
Where would you hang it and how would you style it?
It would get pride of place in my lounge room above my sideboard. I’d style it with bunches of flowers in similar tones. Books and candles would complete the look. Call it a shrine to the artwork.
Have you ever received art as a gift?
Yes. My partner’s sister gifted me a print last Christmas, a chic poster of a lady drinking wine. Gifting art feels incredibly thoughtful. It shows care, consideration and real effort in choosing something meaningful.
Why this artwork?
I’m drawn to green and warm tones. This artwork by Julie Hobbs fits me perfectly. It would suit the oranges, greens and browns in my apartment. It feels lively and youthful, like a visual snapshot of my life as a twenty-something creative in Melbourne.
Where would you hang it and how would you style it?
I’d hang it across from my couch above an armchair. Morning light would catch it beautifully.
It would sit near my big white shelf. My shelf is full of colourful trinkets, especially my growing collection of coloured glass bottles.
Have you ever received art as a gift?
No, I haven’t (yet). I’d love to receive an artwork or gift voucher! To me, gifting art is an intimate way of saying, “I thought of you.”
Why this artwork?
As a painter, I was immediately captivated by the subject. The rich colours and subtle tonal shifts echo the quiet intensity of night painting, something I often do in my garage. I’m a pop artist, bold in my work and in person. This piece feels like an extension of that. It’s creative, confident and unmistakably mine.
Where would you hang it and how would you style it?
I would hang Billy Oakley’s work in my living room, the space that feels most like me. I love raw edges and imperfections that show a hand was here. I’d hang it on a salon wall alongside my other art supply-inspired works, so it feels in conversation with the collection.
Have you ever received art as a gift?
No, but I’d love someone to choose a piece for me one day. Art is an intimate gift that shows you truly know someone, their taste, and their space.
Why this artwork?
As a second-generation Hungarian migrant whose grandparents left behind their most treasured belongings, I’ve always been fascinated by ornate family heirlooms. The hand-painted daisy vase in this still life reminds me of pieces you might see on Antiques Roadshow. I also love how Kathleen Quinert plays with focus. The pear is sharply rendered, while the doily falls softly out of focus. Stunning.
Where would you hang it and how would you style it?
I’m a strong advocate that art doesn’t have to go on a wall, and so this one would sit on my kitchen windowsill, where it can be enjoyed every day.
Have you ever received art as a gift?
Yes! For my twelfth birthday, my mum gifted me a soft pastel drawing of a dog by a local artist. It was a surprise back then, and decades later, it still hangs fondly. To gift art is a deeply considered and emotive gesture. And the best part is, it has no age limit!
Why this artwork?
I love Melody Smith’s work. The way she captures light is beautiful. Still life celebrates everyday moments, and this piece feels deeply human. I just love the way it makes me feel. There is something familiar and comforting about it.
Where would you hang it and how would you style it?
I’d select a black frame for this print and place it in my study. It would be at home, surrounded by the small objects and knick-knacks on my desk, possibly with fresh flowers nearby.
Have you ever received art as a gift?
No, but I have recently gifted it! Gifting art to someone you know is incredibly special, from selecting the perfect piece to seeing their reaction.
Why this artwork?
The colours drew me in. I’ve been wanting to add one of Anna Speirs’ works to my collection for a while. It reflects the colours, mood and style I’m naturally drawn to. Expressive, considered and intentional.
Where would you hang it and how would you style it?
In my living room, as part of a salon hang. I’d frame it in natural timber to complement both the artwork and the space.
Have you ever received art as a gift?
No, but I’d genuinely love to. It shows real thought and care. Art is something you live with, and it becomes a lasting reminder of the person who gave it to you.
Make your gift unforgettable. Explore Bluethumb art under $500 or let them choose with a Bluethumb art voucher.
