Gifting ideas: For your cultured friends

MCA Store within the Museum of Contemporary Art is a treasure trove of beautiful knick knacks and collectibles. There are gorgeous Chinese Style porcelain plates by Australian artist Gus Clutterbuck alongside intricately woven baskets and silk scarves printed with renowned art works. Their collection of hardback books and magazines are also a great way to brighten up a coffee table without spending a bomb.

Matt Pearson is a local Sydney photographer who captures beautiful moments in both nature and cities around the world. He’s won renown for his entire collection but our favourites are his beach photographs, especially his images of the famous Bondi pools. These are the perfect compliment to any light coastal decor.

If you’re not quite sure what type of art will best suit your friend, pop into the Australian Art and Design Gallery and they’ll help you find the right fit. They stock a wide range of local art and artworks, including technicolour acrylics by Kristine Ballard and striking mixed media pieces by Elizabeth Langreiter. If your budget’s smaller, their gallery includes a number of prints and small original works, but if you’ve got money to spend, they also sell grand feature pieces by some of Australia’s most renowned artists.