One of the most common questions I get is: How do you come up with the names for your paintings? The answer isn’t always straightforward because, much like the creative process itself, naming a painting can happen in different ways. Sometimes, the title comes before the first brushstroke, while other times, it emerges mid-process or even after the painting is complete.
When the title comes first
There are moments when I know exactly what a painting will be called before I even start. It might be inspired by a recent trip, a striking image that has stayed with me, or simply a mood I want to capture. The title acts as a guide, setting the tone for the composition before it even exists on the canvas.
When the title emerges during the process
Other times, the name comes to me as I paint. Perhaps a shape, a color combination, or a texture reminds me of a place, a feeling, or an experience. I might see movement in my brushstrokes that evokes a specific memory, or I might notice how the colors interact in a way that brings something unexpected to mind. These moments of recognition help shape the title organically.
When the title comes after completion
And then there are paintings that remain untitled until the very end. Sometimes, I need to sit with the finished piece, absorbing its energy and reflecting on what it evokes. I might explore different words and phrases, searching for the one that resonates most. When I find it, I know it’s right—it feels like the missing puzzle piece that brings the painting’s story full circle.
How to come up with painting titles
If you’re an artist struggling with naming your work, here are some approaches to help:
- Draw from personal experiences – Think about recent trips, memories, or emotions that influenced your work.
- Observe the painting closely – Look for shapes, textures, or colors that remind you of something familiar.
- Consider the mood – What emotions does the painting evoke? Does it feel joyful, serene, chaotic, or mysterious?
- Use poetic or metaphorical language – Abstract titles can add layers of meaning and intrigue.
- Look to literature, music, or nature – Sometimes a phrase from a book, a song lyric, or a natural element can spark the perfect title.
- Experiment with word associations – Write down words related to your painting and see if any stand out.
- Let it sit – If the right name doesn’t come immediately, give it time. Inspiration often arrives when you least expect it.
In the end, naming a painting is just another form of artistic expression. It can add depth, context, and an emotional connection for the viewer, but ultimately, the right title is the one that feels true to the work and to you as the artist.