Yes, it’s a smidge Grinchy to say, but Sav’s always felt that those who can’t gift, shop museum stores (and those who can’t shop museum stores, shop online museum stores). But it’s hard to turn up your Rudolph-red nose when the Baltimore Museum of Art asks Maryland artists to conjure up pieces exclusively for the BMA Shop for the holiday season. Submissions were sent by August and voila! “MD Made/BMA Inspired”: your favorites at the BMA revisited by Maryland artists, with an eye to the utilitarian. The sculptures in the gardens inspired silver jewelry as well as Ursula Minervini’s paper-cut kits. Hand-embroidered felt ornaments by Janet Patacca came from the Baltimore Album Quilts of the 18th century. The Matisse paintings in the Cone collection inspired creations with riotous colors such as Valerie Sanson’s Anemone necklaces with semi-precious stone and beads. Didi Salvatierra also used the Matisse colors for her fiberware: baskets and mats, made with new and recycled cotton, that are heading to Savvy’s holiday table right now. Maybe the spirit of the season is softening old Sav, but these one-of-a-kind gifts—supporting both Maryland artists and the museum— are a definite must for your holiday shopping. Savvy gift pick: Also inspired by the Cone collection, Liz Swanson’s repurposed “a lighter shade of male”—a very colorful collection of hand-painted ties. 10 Art Museum Drive, 443-573-1844
