Hello everybody!
Is everyone of you put signature on the pictures? When any client do not want the signature you agree it? What do you think?

Ta!
Lidia

I always sign with the year as well; e.g. Raison 08

David

I had a client send it back from Scotland. just so I could sign it and return it back!!

Hi Lidia

I can't think of any legitimate reason why a purchaser wouldn't want you to sign a picture - after all, if it's not signed, how would they be able to prove it was by you in years to come if you've become collectable and your prices are higher than now? If they ask you not to sign it I'd be very suspicious - are they hoping to pass it off as someone else's, or as their own and try to circumvent your copyright? For your own protection I'd definitely sign it.

Elise

a few points you might like to consider:
is your signature an integral part of the image?
does it add to the integrity / cohesion of the composition?
if a purchaser really wants your signature, why not just ask for your autograph?
My work has my hand-written name and the date ON THE BACK. When asked, I've never put my name on a canvas, because it was never intended to be a part of the image. And when I've politely refused and explained why, the purchaser has always accepted my rationale.
It may also be about ego, personally I would prefer to have my work represent me in its own right, rather than supplement it with superfluous lettering

maybe they wanted the painting too!?

I agree with Michael. Often people put too much effort into producing an "arty" signature when all that effort could have gone into the painting. I have had students who have been more concerned that they get the signature right than with the production of a good painting!
I think it is something to do with that "arty" flourish that you see on older paintings, making them look more "Old Mastery".
I think Albrecht Durer's small A.D. in the corner is the coolest, so I do my own version of that.(Along with other details on the back).
On the other hand Morandi, who produced quite austere minimal still lives, did finish with a flourish to his signature. So there you go.

As I pointed out I thought it wasn't a big deal if it were signed or not on my previous reply and apparantly it is to some people buying original works, so it really is up to the individual but after having to return one I always now make sure it is signed on the front and supply a certificate on the reverse signed dated and info of the painting saves so much hassle.

Interesting topic. Never really considered it before other than being aware of my own clumsy marks never looking integrated with the rest of the surface - when I did remember that is. Most people insist on a signature I found -tradition I guess and notions of value. I do like to see small signature, date and title, maybe a short description in pencil on mounted and glazed works . Back to the original question, perhaps asking the buyer why they don't want a signature would give more of a clue to motive or taste?

Helen

http://www.helennock.co.uk

I opt for title, date and signature on the back of all my work because my signature looks so dull. I would happily sign my work if it looked better. I have at times included a little symbol in my work where I've been able to add it subtly, but ten to do this more with prints and drawings, simply because I have more control over a pen than I do with a paint brush.

I guess its whatever works for you really- if you dont like the way your signature looks, you sign on the back. Ive only ever had one person ask for my signature on the front- I think I masked it by painting it dark in a dark area- bit of a compromise I guess.

jo