I happen to spend a good amount of time coming up with names for my photographs. I think names are important and have meaning. Sometimes there is a hint of humor, or irony that seems appropriate, other times a more reflective and serious tone is apropos. I have to admit, I’m not a literary giant. Don’t get me wrong, I do like reading but shy away from the titles like “War and Peace” etc. I find the Thesaurus a very helpful tool and could not live without it.
So I found it interesting how this image “Serenity” got it’s name. I had brought the print with me to the Cherokee Park Art Fair in Louisville but left it unnamed. It is such a strong image and wanted to have it available but just couldn’t come up with a name. So there it sat, under the table with no one able to see it. During breaks I thought about the image and finally gave up, it wasn’t meant to be. And then this wonderful couple came by. They spent a lot of time deciding which print they wanted. During our conversation they mentioned that they liked the names I gave my images…As an impulse, I pulled out the nameless print and told them how I was struggling with this print. Viola! She said “Serenity” and they want that one! So I cleared my sales table and signed the print and gave it a name.

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I think, as artists, we sometimes get overwhelmed when it comes time to name a work. I’ve found when we get all bogged down searching for the right words, it’s time to let your public decide. They always make it look so easy…I think “Serenity” is very fitting for this photo; it is calm…beautifully peaceful..
(And I, too, keep a Thesaurus on hand)!