A Marshall Holiday Gift Guide: Give a Painting This Christmas
Marshall does the holidays beautifully. Historic homes glow by candlelight, downtown shops stay open late, and the whole town seems to slow down and look around. If you’re shopping for someone who loves beautiful things, consider a gift that was made right here: a print or a custom portrait by Marshall artist Debra Whelan.
Every painting is made by hand with a stylus (no AI), and every print is made to order on archival paper or canvas and shipped free. Here are a few ideas for the people on your list.
For the dog lover
Labrador Winter Scene is pure holiday joy: a golden Lab with a stick and a red collar, standing proudly in fresh snow. Prints start at $40. For a quieter mood, Iceberg, a husky drifting off to sleep, and Bella, a sweet cream-colored pup, each start at $30.
For the cat lover
White Maine Coon Cat shows off a regal white cat with green eyes against dusty rose. Prints start at $45.
For the classic-car fan
Debra’s vintage cars are a favorite with car people: the Red Packard, the 1930 Lincoln and the tailfin of a Chrysler 300, each from $40, or commission a painting of their own car. Read the stories behind the cars.
For new parents
Dreamland, a sleeping baby in warm golden light, is a peaceful choice for a nursery. Prints start at $35.
For a Marshall history lover
Ominous Octagon House captures Marshall’s own eight-sided house on a snowy winter night. Prints start at $30. Read the house’s story.
For someone who needs comfort
The holidays can be hard after a loss. Stairway to Heaven, a white staircase rising to radiant gates among rainbows and doves, is a gentle gift for someone who is grieving, and the Art of the Spirit collection holds more paintings of faith and light.
The most personal gift: a custom portrait
Nothing says “I know you” like a portrait of the person or pet they love. Debra paints from your photos, emails you the painting as it develops, and can ship the finished print straight to the recipient. Portraits start at $200 for an 8×10.
A portrait takes about two weeks to paint, plus shipping, so get in touch as early in the season as you can.
Turn a favorite photo into a painting
Debra paints custom portraits of the people and pets you love, working from your photos. You’ll see the painting as it develops, with two rounds of edits included.
While you’re in Marshall this season
Make a day of it. The Marshall Historical Society’s Candlelight Walk opens decorated historic homes in early December, and the downtown Holiday Sip & Shop brings an evening of local shopping. Debra and her husband George’s own octagon house has been featured on the Society’s Historic Home Tour and Candlelight Walk five times. You’ll find dates and details for the town’s events on Choose Marshall.
Holiday gift questions
When should I order for Christmas?
As early as you can. Each print takes a few days to make and usually arrives in about a week to a week and a half within the US. A custom portrait takes about two weeks to paint before it ships.
Can a gift ship straight to the person it’s for?
Yes. At checkout, tick “Ship to a different address?” and enter theirs. A finished portrait can also ship directly to the recipient.
Do prints arrive framed?
No. Prints arrive unframed, carefully packed in a flat box and ready for the mat and frame of your choice. Canvas prints aren’t stretched.
Still wondering about something? Ask Debra. She usually replies within 24 hours.
Bring a painting home
Every print is made to order on archival matte paper or artisan canvas, and shipping is always free.