Why does Nana say to sign, date and name your painting?

Naming every picture is a habit I learned from a teacher years ago who said, if you name your picture, it gives it permanence. A foggy marsh at sunrise can have a name like “Still the Marsh.”  A perky chickadee sitting on a limb can be named “Saucy Fellow.”And a sandy beach with brightly colored umbrellas has the name “Beach Destination.” Just take a moment and think. Give your imagination time to work a magical name that tells your painting’s story! Like a true artist, sign at least your first name or initials on your picture. Down in a bottom corner is a good spot. Sometimes we sign our names on the back of a picture. If you share photos of your children’s artwork online you may want to consider having them sign their names on the back of their pictures as well. More on naming and signing pictures.