No. 58 becomes Landing Party

“Landing Party” is one of the few of my Shapemaking artworks that have a non-numerical title. When my husband suggested it I instantly got it. I said “Yes! that’s perfect”. So far, no one else has instantly “got it”. Do you get it? I explain below, but first, let me tell you a little about my trouble with titles.

Naming abstract artwork is not easy for me

The process of making the artwork is what I enjoy most. Making shapes, modifying the form, space, and color to the point I’m satisfied and feel that jolt of art-joy. I hope the viewer will feel the same. I’m done, so what’s next? Oh the hard part for me… giving the artwork a title. If I plan to share the work on Instagram, as I often do, I’m kinda in a hurry so I will usually just date it and not bother with a title. I can worry about that later.

An artwork’s title is important

Right, I know that. It helps a viewer make a connection, look a bit longer at the work and wonder why it earned that title. It can add both mystery and meaning. I like viewers to discover their own meaning, but giving a helpful nudge is valuable. Plus, titles such as “Untitled No. 157” or “180826” are not memorable for me or anyone else.

The Shapemaking artworks were all numbered. They were part of 100-day projects posted on Instagram, so it’s a logical/efficient method to track the project progress. After it’s done though, I have a heck of a time remembering which is which. I visually recall the artwork but have to keep digging back to my Instagram feed to remember the number title. If only I could get better at naming, I’d have an easier method to recall the works and make the work more engaging. I’m working on it.

Back to Landing Party

“Shapemaking 2018 No. 58” is one of my favorites from my recent series. Now that it has it’s new name, “Landing Party”, I like it even more. When Tim suggested it, I instantly knew he was referring to Star Trek. I saw the colors and styling of the Star Trek uniforms, possibly an arm and chest, and maybe the discombobulation of the transporter. You know, when the landing party goes down to check a new planet for the first time. Sadly, the guy in the red shirt often doesn’t make it back alive.

Are there any other Trekkies out there?

Limited edition prints of Landing Party are available for purchase.

Title suggestions welcome

If something pops into your head while you’re looking at my untitled works let me know here or on Instagram. I need all the help I can get.
Thanks for reading.

P.S. Turns out the Internet has solved my challenge. Automation is taking over, I found an abstract art title generator. (Wink)