The Significance of Title

The Significance of Titles.......this is pretty interesting for artists and actually helpful for art appreciators (that would be you). :)

Many artists will develop the theme of their painting and create the name first.  They then proceed to create, keeping their title in mind, which gives them direction and flow.  Some artists will use the title to help explain the meaning of their work.  And there are those who prefer to "Untitle" their paintings.  Some merely use numbers.
It's also important to note here that those who enjoy art do not have to define what they see or draw conclusion or understanding.  Enjoying art for the visual entertainment, emotional pull, or love of color and shape is enough!

Titles may give insight into what the artist was thinking when they created their art.  For me...the title evolves as I work through my painting.  An idea will usually start percolating and meaning is assigned.  In this way, I am connected deeply to my art!  My titles can capture the essence or story.  These are the topics I will discuss with those viewing my art at exhibitions.  Each painting is uniquely special to me, a part of me.  I enjoy sharing this with potential buyers or appreciators.

Lets look at the painting on the left...I have titled this "UNLIMITED POSSIBILITIES".  I have many times driven by this improbable tree growing in the rock outcropping, on the Oregon Coast.  This symbolizes strength through hardship and resonates deeply with me.
The large urn on the right is titled, "ANNOUNCING JOY" and was painted a few days before Christmas as I anticipated the homecoming of my son, daughter-in-law, and grand dog.  A lightness in my heart is expressed in this piece.
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"SEAS THE DAY".... Yes, a play on words but I was in Hawaii at this time and living each moment, as one does on a tropical island.  Back in the studio, and while painting, the essence of that time filled me with realization that appreciating life is not saved for vacations!  
Ahhh...this beauty on the right:  I was exploring the antique shops in an old Oregon country town when I walked passed this deserted building.  I'm blessed as an artist, to see more than what is there.  The window held my fascination and within minutes I could see this new house filled with life and occupied by the generations with laughter, growth, and happiness...til present.  Abandoned,  but well used.  I titled this painting "ANCIENT LIFETIMES".