Introducing: The Art Biz with Alison Stanfield

Today's feed drop comes from a podcast that has had a meaningful impact on how I think about building a sustainable art practice: The Art Biz with Alison Stanfield.

If you've ever struggled to title your artwork—or wondered whether titles matter at all—this conversation is for you.

In this episode, Alison Stanfield sits down with artist, writer, and educator Fran Gardner to explore why titling artwork is much more than an administrative task. Together they discuss how titles help artists understand their own work, deepen their connection to the creative process, and communicate more effectively with viewers.

One idea that stayed with me is Fran's belief that a title is the first step toward a work's independence. Long after a piece leaves the studio, its title continues to carry meaning, offering viewers a way into the work when the artist isn't there to explain it.

As someone who loves titles and thinks of them as containers that give shape to ideas, I knew I had to share this conversation with the NoseyAF community.

In this episode:

Why titling artwork is a creative practice, not an afterthought
How titles help artists better understand their own work
The relationship between writing and visual art
Developing a personal process for naming artwork
Why artists should resist outsourcing titles to AI or social media
The role titles play in communication, marketing, and audience connection
How thoughtful titling can strengthen an artist's professional practice

Notable Quotes

"A title is the first step toward your artwork's independence."

"The writing is your studio work."

"Your artwork is going to have a life beyond you."

About Alyson Stanfield

Alyson Stanfield has spent more than two decades helping artists build sustainable, professional creative careers. Through coaching, classes, writing, and The Art Biz podcast, she helps artists develop the systems, confidence, and visibility needed to thrive.

Links referenced in this episode:

artbizsuccess.com/essentials
artbizsuccess.com/spotlight
frangardnerart.com
Fran Gardner's Artists Will Find a Way book series affliate link

Chapters:

00:08 - Introduction to the Podcast
05:27 - The Importance of Titling in Art
18:26 - The Process of Creating and Understanding Art
28:20 - Understanding Personal Symbols in Art
34:51 - The Importance of Titling in Art
44:41 - The Interconnection of Creativity and Teaching

Connect with Alyson:

Website: artbizsuccess.com

Podcast: https://artbizsuccess.com/podcasts/

Connect with Fran:

Website: frangardnerart.com

Instagram: @frangardnerart