Nine days until Christmas. Nine measly days. There are probably a few people on your list for whom you still have absolutely no idea what to buy, are we right? Instead of playing it safe with a boring gift certificate or box of chocolates, surprise everyone this year by being the most creative gift giver in the family. The Museum of Contemporary Art has some new artistic gift ideas that are sure to have everyone talking about how they wish YOU were their Secret Santa this year.
For the friend with the slightly twisted sense of humor, how about the Teddy Bear Lamp, where good old Teddy's head has been replaced by a black lampshade. This might be a bit disturbing for your toddler niece, but for someone who can understand how one might end up with a lampshade on his head at the end of a raucous evening, this might be a winner. $130; Matthew Kinealy and produced by suck UK. Energy efficient bulb included.
For your ''green'' brother, the ''Greenaid Bag'' is the perfect choice. The $16 ''grenade'' contains a reusable shopping bag that can hold up to 11 pounds and helps fight the war against plastic bags.
For the family member who can't get enough of popping those little plastic wrapping bubbles, spring for the 2009 Bubble Calendar. Designed by Stephen Turbek, this calendar is 48 inches tall and 18 inches wide, providing a satisfying bubble to pop every day of the year. $36.
For the sister who is always looking for a unique piece of art, consider the ''Still Life Bowl.'' Designed by Barnaby Barford and André Klauser, this bowl with a frame attached allows fruit or other small objects to become instant framed works of art. Let your imagination run wild. $115
Purchase any of these items online or visit the Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 East Chicago Ave. 312-280-2660.
