PEZ becomes “art toy” with extremely limited artist edition. Buy Them Early For Christmas

PEZ is a cult brand, and has long been more than a pop icon for kids. The brand is now laying the foundation for artistic collaboration with PEZ Arts: selected themes from artists are reimagined as PEZ dispensers and transformed into separate editions. 

This became a reality with the first edition created together with Vienna-based artist JF Krichbaum and a figure from his Kid Guard series.

Marketing Manager Ursula Polymeropulos told That's Christmas 365: “The PEZ brand has been with people for generations – and PEZ dispensers are virtually guaranteed to bring smiles to people’s faces. 

"This instantly happy, easy feeling connects us with art – it can also calm us, surprise us and trigger strong emotions.”

She adds: “PEZ stands not only for well-known characters from film and television, but also for creative impetus and contemporary design. With PEZ Arts we are showcasing a facet of the brand in which artistic impression and currency take centre stage.”

The first edition is dedicated to a figure from JF Krichbaum’s Kid Guard series. His fantastical characters and the visual worlds he puts them in evoke dream-like sequences from childhood, familiar yet mysterious. 

His Kid Guards are both child-like guards and guards protecting childhood. The transformation into a PEZ dispenser has opened up new, playful dimensions.

The edition was presented on 27 May at a celebration at Dschungel Café in Vienna and is now available in gift sets, designed in collaboration with JF Krichbaum.

The PEZ Arts edition from JF Krichbaum is limited to 5,000 pieces globally and available in the EU and USA PEZ online shops. Portions of the proceeds will be donated to St. Anna Kinderkrebsforschung children’s cancer research.

The PEZ Group, headquartered in Traun, Austria, is one of the top 100 confectionery companies globally and operates in over 80 countries. In 2027, the company will be celebrating its 100-year anniversary and looking back on an extraordinary brand history.

For more information: visit https://www.pez-candy.com/pages/pez-arts

Organising Arts-Based Training Courses for Budding Artists This Christmas

When it comes to Christmas presents, there’s something extra special about giving the gift of creativity. 

Instead of another gadget or trinket that may be forgotten by spring, why not help the budding artist in your life develop their skills with an arts-based training course? 

From painting and sculpture to digital design and photography, an art course can be an unforgettable and inspiring gift.

Why Choose an Arts-Based Course as a Gift?

A lasting experience – Unlike material presents, courses provide skills and memories that last well beyond the festive season.

Encourages creativity – Whether they’re a complete beginner or already passionate about their craft, guided tuition helps them grow.

Tailored to their interests – You can find courses to suit just about any artistic pursuit.

Builds confidence – Learning new techniques in a supportive environment helps artists of all ages flourish.

Ideas for Arts-Based Courses to Gift

Painting and Drawing Workshops – Perfect for beginners or those looking to refine their technique. Options range from watercolours to oils, life drawing to abstract.

Ceramics and Pottery Classes – Hands-on and tactile, pottery is both creative and therapeutic.

Photography Courses – With digital and smartphone photography booming, this is a great choice for those who want to take better pictures or even move into professional work.

Textile Arts – Knitting, embroidery, weaving or fabric dyeing classes are ideal for craft lovers.

Digital Art & Design – Courses in Photoshop, Illustrator, or Procreate help creative minds bring their ideas to life on screen.

Printmaking – From lino cutting to screen-printing, printmaking courses are fantastic for those who love working with bold images and experimenting with layers.

Sculpture – Clay, wood, or mixed media sculpture classes allow for three-dimensional creativity.

How to Organise the Gift

Research local providers – Community centres, galleries, universities, colleges and private studios often run short courses.

Look online – Platforms like Domestika, Skillshare, and Udemy offer virtual options for those who prefer to learn at home.

Consider vouchers – Many art schools and studios offer gift vouchers, allowing your recipient to choose the course that excites them most.

Package it creatively – Instead of just handing over a printed voucher, present it with a small set of art supplies, like brushes, sketchbooks, or clay tools.

Who Would Love This Gift?

Arts-based courses make excellent presents for children discovering their creative talents, teenagers seeking a productive hobby, and adults looking for a mindful, enriching pastime. 

Whether your loved one is aiming for a career in the arts or just enjoys the occasional sketch, this kind of gift shows that you value their creativity.

A Christmas Gift That Inspires

This festive season, give more than a present—give inspiration, learning, and creative growth. An arts-based training course is thoughtful, memorable, and personal, making it the perfect gift for the budding artist in your life. 

Who knows? Perhaps next Christmas they will be able to use their new artistic skills to craft personal Christmas gifts?