As godmother to not one but two children (yes, really: both sets of parents have not yet discerned Shopping Bag's truly ludicrous nature), I know that when you're buying a present for a newborn, it requires some SERIOUS thought.
Essentially, it's ridiculous that I've put so much brainpower into this, given that the recipients can't give their opinion, but presents for babies should be cool but not in a try-hard way, unusual without being too silly, within a budget but not within the one-play-and-it-breaks category. And never forgetting that the present is USUALLY a present-for-the-response-of-the -parent.
It is, then, with pleasure that I introduce you to 'Art for Baby'. 'Art for Baby' is a book which features the work of many a famous artist, including Damien Hirst, Bridget Riley, Julian Opie (if you liked Blur, you'll recognize his distinctive style, left), and Gary Hume.
This book sounds pretentious and, yes, it is in a way. But that pretension is undercut by the fact that all the images have been donated by the artists involved, and £1.50 of every book sold goes to the NSPCC in the UK or Children 1st in Scotland. So, you see, it is an excellent choice, demonstrating your good taste and innate benevolence in one simple gesture.
The point of black and white imagery is that babies are supposed to respond much better to that than colour, and if they're going to stare at black and white, it may as well be at what they may grow up to consider good art. Reasonable assumption, and the brainchild of Yana Peel, a founder of the OUTSET Contemporary Art Fund, which is also a good thing by the way (it's a philanthropic organization which supports new art, have a look at their website for more info).
The book is £14.99 usually, but if you want to get a special limited edition, signed by artists, you can do just that in Selfridges for £100. Maybe you'll put it on your coffee table, and when babies come round to visit, you'll place it up high, out of reach. Whatever, if you're operating under the clause that it's better to give than receive, this is one gift that you cannot fail to win you appreciation and respect. Don't pretend that's not what you're after.
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