is already out of date before next Christmas rolls around, consider the idea of buying a work of art.

While the notion of buying a picture, sculpture, or a piece of original designer-jewellery might not immediately spring to mind as you make that weary pilgrimage around crowded stores, it's an idea that's worth some serious thought, writes Pat Calnan .

Just imagine: this is one of the very few gifts you can buy today that actually becomes the family heirloom of tomorrow. And if you like a bit of a gamble, there is always the possibility that the artist who is just starting out, may become the next Picasso.

You can be sure that your gift will be one of a kind. There is also the added satisfaction in knowing that you are helping to preserve Bermuda's heritage and supporting our local artists and craftsmen at the same time.

Buying art may sound very grand, but the reality -- and good news -- is that it doesn't have to be expensive: watercolours can often be snapped up for about $50 and craftwork, such as scarves or jewellery, are also an economical purchase. If your budget won't stretch to an original painting, there are some outstanding prints by local artists which can be yours for sometimes as little as $5. Oil paintings sometimes start as low as $75. There are also plenty of fine quality limited edition prints signed by local artists on sale at galleries and gift shops throughout the Island.

The Bermuda National Gallery has a fine selection of art books for adults and children. To complement the African art show, craftwork from East and West Africa is also on sale. There are some real bargains here, with prices starting at $3 for authentic African jewellery, fabric, quilted items and carved wooden animals. Director Laura Gorham says that the maconde carvings, which range from $135 to $600 "are worth far more than that -- a real bargain at these prices.'' The Garden Gallery at Crawl has oil paintings by Bermuda's own Otto Trott for $400 to $1,200. Small watercolours are available at around $50 and some of his early works are also on sale, starting at around $120.

The first anniversary of the Windjammer's Front Street outlet is on December 10, and their artists have been asked to bring in smaller pieces of work for the Christmas season. At both galleries there is a comprehensive collection of prints, including the latest Bermuda Triangle posters from Ian Macdonald Smith's new book of that title.

If money is no object, how about a piece of sculpture by Desmond Fountain? You can make your choice at his next solo show, which opens at the Windjammer on November 24. Prices are not for the faint-hearted, starting at $5,000 and for larger pieces, reach as much as $100,000.

Ms Jean Pare of the Arts Centre at Dockyard says that the current Craft Show, which runs until the end of the year, is "the perfect chance for locals and visitors to get reasonably priced, original hand-dyed and painted silk scarves.'' At less than $50, they are a popular item. Also on show are papier mache decorator pieces, such as bowls and mirrors, most of them under $50.

Well-known local jewellery designers Lynn Morrell (who makes exquisite sterling silver earrings) and Judith Farum's distinctive shell jewellery sell from about $25 to $100. "Another really unusual idea for gifts are our beautiful quilted wall hangings, which range from $75 to $600,'' says Ms Pare.

Heritage House will hold its popular annual Small Packages exhibition from December 17 onwards which, this year, will feature highly affordable artwork by about 15 of Bermuda's leading artists.

But before that, a combined show by Bermudian artists Diana and Eric Amos opens on November 26.

Proprietor Mr. Jay Bluck also features paintings by well-known European artists.

Masterworks, now established in their new home on Bermuda House Lane off Front Street, have limited editions of the Kirkpatrick Ethchings, selling at $85 (unframed) and $175, framed, and Ogden Pleissner's view of St. George's on sale at $150 (unframed) and $350 for a handsome framed version. There is a large selection of Bermuda-inspired posters starting as low as $5, as well as art cards, calendars and engagement books.

Between now and Christmas, books by local artists Dana Cooper, Bruce Stuart and photographer Ian MacDonald-Smith will be signed at special signing sessions.

For the discerning buyer, art dealer Mr. Nicky Lusher offers an impressive collection of early Bermudian watercolours and oils by listed American artists. Contact him at 293-8871.

A TALL ORDER -- This nine-foot "from horn to hoof''papier mache giraffe by Jean Rodriguez would make a highly original Christmas gift. Inspired by the National Gallery's African art show, this handsome fellow is yours for $2,000 from the Bermuda Society of Arts. Pictured at City Hall is African show co-designer, Ms `D' Wood.