Several times I’ve mentioned how my paintings evolve. I can let them rest for years, seemingly stuck for completion.

That may imply a level of frustration, but it’s not meant that way at all. It’s much more like a self-test of patience, even confidence in a way. Before I let a picture rest for awhile I ask myself a few questions, though I have to think back hard, as it is largely intuitive as well. Essentially it comes down to whether to go on or not. When you know you may have spent 100 hours or more on painting, spread over several years, that’s not such an easy decision.

It’s true that an artist can develop a relationship with the art, with any given piece, so in a way it’s like saying goodbye for awhile, knowing (hoping?) that we will meet again . . . but when? Perhaps this too is part of the adventure of art? It seems that way.

Anyway, here is another painting that has back to town for a surprise visit! She is what I would call an enigma, as she never told me her name in the first place, and she still refuses to do so.

I’ve taken it upon myself to find her a name – let’s call it a title – and it’s not been so easy this time – so many options!

I try to be careful with naming my art, as I know a few words can affect how the viewer thinks about the painting. I also tend to get a little “punnish” in the process . . . painfully so?

Finally, I’ve added a few ideas, with no one particular favorite, and they are just under the picture, as shown here. Comments are welcome, but no suggestions please . . . this naming is something I must simply do myself . Simply . . . ha!

My enigmatic friend without a name.

As for possible names, I’ll probably choose something entirely different in the end:

1. Forgetting to Brush
2. The Focus Group
3. Primal Therapy
4. Gasping For Hair
5. Final Apprehensions
6. Passed the Past

That’s the short list . . . I just hope it doesn’t take years to make up my mind!