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Using a Pseudonym? Thoughts please
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Message
Posted
I live in a very small town, where everyone knows everyone else and their business, pretty much.
I have recently started Adult Education painting lessons (in secret, lol), after having not drawn or painted for about 12 years. They are having an exhibition next month, and I have been strongly encouraged to submit one or two items for display
I am happy to take part, although a little self-conscious at having my stuff displayed, and wondered if I could submit under a pseudonym? Obviously my tutor would know whose work it was, but I thought an anagram of my real (very boring) name might be a bit of fun.
I have no thought to sell my work in future, just to paint for pleasure, so wondered if people had any thoughts on whether this would be acceptable/ a good idea?
Posted
If your that stressed then just sign on the back, or don't sign at all. I've only recently started signing work.
You could stand there and pretend not to know whose work it is so that you can discuss it with others and get an honest opinion! (just remember to take anything that may be said negative and turn it into something constructive)
Or sign with a symbol, picture, animal (I've heard someone on here signs with a rat) etc.
Good luck!
Posted
I think you must do what is right for you . Personally I would sign it and just be honest. The first time i exhibited I sort of sidled sideways into the exhibition and almost looked through my fingers at the painting. It is nerve racking and I do know how you are feeling. Just do what you are happy with........T. B friend Robert is the ratty person.
Posted
I, indeed, sign most of mine with a rat (excluding those I've forgotten to sign at all). The only time I don't is when the poor critter would be put in danger - a seascape with a rat in it would be problematic: could always pop him on a piece of driftwood, but then he'd be prey to seagulls, big fish, rogue waves .... no, I just couldn't do it.
Many people use a symbol, anagram, one of those devices incorporating your initials the name of which I've momentarily forgotten (I'm doing a lot of that these days - forgetting, I mean..): but on the whole I think I'd go for self-promotion rather than self-concealment - get all the praise (and custom) you can.
Posted
Thanks all!
I will put my initials then, which is how I usually sign stuff (no I can't remember the name for the thing either Robert, but I superimpose one over the other). I think we are supposed to provide details for a catalogue too, but then there's the advantage that people won't necessarily read that whilst I'm standing there.