Unwrapping Creativity: 21 Essential Gifts for Animators
Choosing the perfect gift for someone can be a tricky task, even more so when the recipient is an animator. This profession blends art, creativity, and technology, which makes for a wide and diverse range of potential animator gift ideas. So, if you’re searching for the perfect present for that special animator in your life, you’re in the right place!
1. Wacom Cintiq Pro Digital Graphic Drawing Tablet
Let’s start with a big-ticket item that any animator would appreciate—a Wacom Cintiq Pro Digital Graphic Drawing Tablet. This high-tech tool offers precision, quality, and versatility, making it a dream come true for animators. It’s a bit on the pricier side (around $800) but is a worthy investment for their career. You can purchase it from various online retailers like Amazon or directly from Wacom’s website.
2. How to Draw Anime Book Series
Every animator can benefit from brushing up on their drawing skills. The “How to Draw Anime” book series is a fantastic resource for both beginners and professionals. Priced around $20 per book, this series offers in-depth tutorials on drawing characters, animals, and scenery in the anime style. It’s available on Amazon and other online book retailers.
3. Animator’s Survival Kit
The Animator’s Survival Kit is a must-have for any animator. Written by Richard Williams, a renowned animator, this book offers invaluable insights into the art of animation. Available for about $25, this book can be found on numerous online bookstores.
4. Adobe Creative Cloud Subscription
In the digital age of animation, software like Adobe After Effects and Illustrator are essential tools. Therefore, an annual subscription to Adobe Creative Cloud would make an excellent gift. It costs around $600 per year and can be purchased directly from Adobe’s website.
5. Animation Desk
An Animation Desk is a practical and thoughtful gift. It’s designed with adjustable settings for optimal comfort and efficiency while drawing. The price varies depending on the model and brand, but expect to spend around $100-$200. Online furniture stores or Amazon would be the best places to buy one.
6. Personalized Animator Coffee Mug
A personalized coffee mug is a fun and affordable gift. You can customize it with an animation-themed design or a funny quote about late-night animating. A custom mug costs around $15-$25 and can be ordered from various custom gift retailers online.
7. 3D Pen
A 3D pen allows animators to bring their creations to life in three dimensions. This innovative tool costs around $50-$100, depending on the brand. It can be purchased on Amazon or at a local electronics store.
8. Lightbox
A lightbox is a handy tool for traditional animators who still enjoy drawing on paper. It provides a well-lit surface for tracing and refining drawings. Prices vary but expect to spend around $20-$40. You can find a wide selection on Amazon.
9. Animation Software Tutorial Course
Online tutorial courses for animation software like Udemy or Coursera can be an invaluable gift. These courses usually range from $20 to $200, depending on the complexity of the course.
10. Studio Ghibli Collection
Every animator can find inspiration in the works of Studio Ghibli. A collection of their films on Blu-ray would make for a perfect gift. It costs around $80-$100 and can be found on Amazon or in electronics stores.
11. Moleskine Art Sketchbook
A quality sketchbook is a must for any animator. The Moleskine Art Sketchbook is renowned for its high-quality paper and durability. It costs around $20 and can be purchased online or at local stationery stores.
12. Anatomy for the Artist Book
Understanding human anatomy is fundamental for animators. “Anatomy for the Artist” is a popular book that provides detailed illustrations of the human body. It’s available on Amazon for about $25.
13. Action Figure Model for Artists
An action figure model helps animators visualize and draw human poses accurately. These models range from $20-$50 and can be found on Amazon or art supply stores.
14. Portable External Hard Drive
Due to the large file sizes they work with, animators can always use more storage. A portable external hard drive is a practical gift that will be much appreciated. They’re available online or in electronics stores for about $50-$100.
15. Be Animated T-Shirt
A fun and casual gift idea is a T-shirt with an animation-related design or slogan, like “Be Animated”. These shirts can be found on sites like Etsy or Redbubble for around $20-$30.
16. Pixar Art Collection
For inspiration and to appreciate the art of animation, a Pixar Art Collection book is a great gift. It costs around $30 and is available on Amazon or other online bookstores.
17. Animation Themed Wall Art
Brighten up their workspace with some animation-themed wall art. With a variety of styles and designs, you can find the perfect piece to match their aesthetic. Prices range from $20 to $100, and they can be found on Etsy or other online art retailers.
18. Clip Studio Paint Pro
Clip Studio Paint Pro is a versatile software for digital drawing and painting, making it a fantastic gift for animators. It costs around $50 and can be purchased directly from Clip Studio’s website.
19. Custom Animation Character Portrait
A custom portrait of the recipient as their favorite animation character is a unique and personal gift. Prices vary, starting around $50, and it can be ordered from artists on platforms like Etsy.
20. Animation Magazine Subscription
Keeping up to date with industry news and trends is important for any professional. An Animation Magazine subscription is a thoughtful gift that will be appreciated all year long. It costs around $30 for a digital subscription and can be purchased directly from Animation Magazine’s website.
21. Artist’s Glove
An artist’s glove can help reduce friction when drawing on a digital tablet, making it a practical and affordable gift. They’re available for around $10 on Amazon or art supply stores.
In conclusion, finding the perfect gift for an animator involves understanding their professional needs, personal style, and the tools they use daily. These 21 animator gift ideas cater to a range of budgets and preferences. Remember, the best gifts are those that show you understand and appreciate their passion.
What are your go-to gifts for the animators in your life? Share your ideas and experiences in the comments below!
