Purchasing a piece of art is a commitment and when someone is about to make that choice, they will observe the painting for a long time, and they will also find the small tag with the title. The reason for this is to find a connection between themselves and the art. The primary point of connection for the buyer is the look of the painting, the next is the title. This is often where a buyer who is undecided makes a connection and decides to purchase your work. We will look at some ideas to keep in mind when creating titles that can help sell your works of art.
Be creative
Often, we try to restate what the painting is already communicating to the audience. You will need to think of the title as an additional part of the art which provides something new. Choose a title that is different than the art, not less. What you need is for the title of the artwork to offer a new experience that is refreshingly different.
Connect the feelings to the title
Instead of a title which is retelling your art, it is important to identify the key feeling you experience or want to convey. Then choose words or phrases for a title to conjure up the same feeling. For example, if your art is showing green grass against a blue sky, instead of the title being "Grass" it can be "Breeze," which can relate to the feeling of lying in the grass on a spring day…
Have an expansive title
It is necessary to have a title, be it literal or abstract, to be as encompassing and expansive as possible. If the title is expansive, there is room for the viewer to have their own interpretation. For example, if your painting is a series of red shapes, instead of titling it "Red Shapes" you can call it "Crimson Storm," leaving room for interpretation. By allowing others to find their own meaning in your work, it is also likely to increase the chances of someone personally interpreting your work and eventually purchasing the art.
Always remember a good title:
- Will provide insight into your inspiration for the artwork.
- Allows the viewer to bring his or her own meaning and interpretation of the work.
- Will be original.
- It will be memorable and catchy.
So, the next time you set out to name a finished work or to purchase a piece, always remember to look at the title…
Manesha Peiris (2022)
