This year, with supply-chain worries shaking up shopping lists, rest assured the Store at Mia is stuffed with inspired, unique gifts for all ages and interests, online and in person. (Mia members save 10 percent by the way, and you can gift memberships as well.) We asked museum staff—among the store’s best customers—for their top picks.
Gretchen Halverson, Manager of Digital Engagement and Access
Light up the winter with candlesticks by Poketo.
It’s rare that I can go into the Store at Mia without grabbing something for a friend and myself! My best-laid plans usually go out the window when I come across the jewelry. Wearing masks, it’s fun to have some flair and these earrings by Sunshine Tienda hit the mark. Buy a pair for yourself and a friend.
As we head into the cooler months, I’m always looking for ways to make things feel cozy. I’m loving the candlestick trend that’s giving off retro vibes, and these colored glass ones by Poketo feel elevated and modern. I also want decor that works for more than just one season and these colors are sure to bring joy all year.
Casey Riley, Chair of Global Contemporary Art and Curator of Photography and New Media
“Seeing Deeply” presents the work of Dawoud Bey, known for his portrait and history projects.
Sarah Meister’s brilliant little volume on Dorothea Lange’s most celebrated photograph, Migrant Mother, is the perfect gift for photo nerds and casual viewers alike (and an ideal stocking stuffer).
The essays and plates in Dawoud Bey’s gorgeous publication, Seeing Deeply, provide a memorable and personal overview of the artist’s remarkable career and vision for the field of photography; this book is literally the most thoughtful gift for anyone on your holiday list.
Tim Gihring, Brand Narrator and host of The Object podcast
Little Fridas, much joy.
A self portrait by Frida Kahlo recently sold at auction for $34.9 million, the most ever for a Latin American artist. You could get these charming Frida ornaments, embroidered by artisans in southern Mexico, for about 99.99 percent less.
Men rarely think they need new socks, but in fact they need them constantly, like shark’s teeth that keep wearing out. Get them more interesting socks—like these ones inspired by Mia artworks—and they’ll pay more attention. In fact, get them the four-pack.
I’ve never baked anything in a dish, which is maybe why I’m so drawn to this set of Colorama baking dishes. They’re so gorgeous, I’d fill them with lasagna—all of them–just so I could have them around to look at.
Tobie Miller, Curatorial Department Assistant and Artist Liaison, Arts of Global Africa
This coral black ash and copper basket by Kelly Church contains multitudes, even when empty.
I’m in love with these earrings by Josef Reiter, a wonderful Minnesota artist inspired by nature.
Kelly Church is also amazing—she’s a member of the Gun Lake Band of Potawatomi, part of an incredible lineage of basket makers, and receiving one of her baskets would make me cry so many tears of joy!
A cute set of colorful studs is a total win, and handmade polymer—like this set from the Minneapolis studio of Jac & Violet—is always a wonderful gift!
Keisha Williams, Curatorial Department Assistant and Artist Liaison, Department of Global Contemporary Art
The Dusen Dusen Everybody Tissue box makes being sick a little better.
I personally have the Dusen Dusen Everybody Tissue box. (purchased from Mia) and I love it. It’s a gift for the millennial who loves quirky home décor.
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Shop online or in person during museum hours. Curbside pickup is available for contactless shopping. Orders ship via USPS; we recommend placing your order at least three weeks in advance of your desired arrival date.