For over 125 years, the Parrish Art Museum (279 Montauk Highway, Water Mill, 631-283-2118) has brought the work of both global and local artists to its walls, floors, landscape and even lights (like the recent Rafael Lozano-Hemmer installation on the museum’s south-facing façade, with its nighttime ripple of lights that respond to cosmic radiation — far out!). That eye toward making art a vital part of community life carries through in their excellent gift shop, overseen by the keen eye of museum shop manager Julie O’Rourke. From handmade treasures crafted by local artists to this-ain’t-Amazon unique treats for your near and dear, it’s the best kept gift-giving secret around.
1. “Artists Choose Parrish” book $75 (limited edition artist-signed versions, $100)
Lightning in a bottle? Maybe more like a bound book. The once-in-a-lifetime show was captured on the pages of this stunning coffee table book, depicting last year’s 125th anniversary celebration and only available at the Parrish gift shop. “The idea is that these well-renowned living artists, most of whom are from the East End,” says O’Rourke, “went into our vaults and paired their own work with what’s in our collection.”
2. Parrish Art Museum Hat $20
A handsome hat to keep the sun at bay while roaming the lovely Reed Hilderbrand-landscaped grounds.
(Photos by Doug Young)
3. Eto buddha candle $70
Reach for enlightenment — and light — with one of these 100% beeswax buddha face candles made by Southampton artist Lena Seltzer.
4. Latigo pearl necklace $250
Amagansett-based artist Suzanne Leaver creates these gorgeous, covetable natural pearl necklaces, sourcing freshwater gemstones that she strings on hand-rolled leather. Not only are they gorgeous, but you can even wear them in the waves at the beach.
(Photos by Doug Young)
5. Likha purse $240
These stunning handmade clutches are made from buri palm fronds and get their saturated, eye-catching colors from nontoxic dyes, like this beautiful tangerine number.
6. Parrish Art Museum mug $15
Sip it or wear it proudly! For a quick “I’m thinking about you!” gift, grab a cool 14-oz. Parrish logo mug with their signature blue glazed on the interior for your morning cuppa.
7. Jessamyn Go “Heart” $450-$500
From her Femme Sole studio, Mastic Beach resident and potter Jessamyn Go designs and crafts stunning pieces meant to elevate the routine to the ritual-worthy. Her metallic-glazed ceramic heart series captures the literal core of human life, inspired by Go’s personal journey following the discovery of her congenital heart condition.
