The Art of Naming: The Story and Meaning Behind A Title

The title of an artwork often serves as a window into its soul. It’s the first clue a viewer encounters, setting the stage for an emotional journey through the artist's vision. Choosing the right title is an art form in itself, requiring thoughtfulness and intent to encapsulate the essence of the piece while inviting the audience to explore deeper meanings.

Christine Sauer Fifer’s evocative work, As Long As It Takes, is a masterclass in the power of a well-chosen title. Her enamel-on-canvas piece is rich with symbolism, storytelling, and the universal complexities of love. Through this title and the layers within the artwork, Fifer offers an intricate narrative of devotion, risk, and the enduring hope of connection.

The Narrative Behind the Title

At first glance, As Long As It Takes suggests patience and perseverance, a devotion willing to endure time and obstacles. In the context of the piece, it reflects the journey of love—a journey often fraught with uncertainty, vulnerability, and sacrifice.

Fifer’s charming depiction of a young fox laying gifts at the feet of his beloved hen captures this sentiment. The pairing is unexpected and historically fraught, yet the fox’s persistence and heartfelt gestures—a ring in a velvet box, melting ice cream with sliding cherry, mistletoe, and peach blossoms—speak to a deep and unwavering hope. These elements align perfectly with the title, underscoring the idea that love, no matter how challenging, is worth the wait.

Symbolism in the Details

Fifer’s use of symbolism brings the title to life:

• Peach Blossoms convey the Victorian message of captivity in love, a nod to the surrender and vulnerability required in relationships.
• Ivy symbolizes fertility and longevity, hinting at the fox’s wish for an enduring bond.
• The Apple is a subtle, playful reference to temptation, alluding to both risk and reward in love.

Fifer’s inclusion of literary quotes and themes adds another layer to the story. From Far From the Madding Crowd to The Princess Bride, she weaves a tapestry of love’s trials, triumphs, and sacrifices. These references, paired with the title, remind viewers that love is universal and timeless—an experience shared across cultures, generations, and stories.

Perspective and Emotion

Fifer’s art challenges viewers to interpret the narrative through their own lens. Does the hen’s aloof gaze suggest disinterest, or has she been waiting just as long for the right partner? Is the fox’s devotion a sign of hope, or is he destined for heartbreak? These questions, mirrored in the title, invite reflection on the complexity of love and relationships.

The Power of a Thoughtful Title

A title like As Long As It Takes does more than label a piece; it amplifies its impact. It draws viewers into the narrative and encourages them to engage with the emotions and themes embedded within the work. For Fifer’s piece, the title underscores the persistence and patience required in love while leaving room for individual interpretation—making it both personal and universal.

Final Thoughts

Christine Sauer Fifer’s As Long As It Takes reminds us that love is rarely simple, often demanding sacrifices and resilience. Her carefully chosen title is a testament to this reality, encapsulating the essence of her work and inviting viewers to connect with its deeper meaning.

In the end, the significance of a title lies in its ability to spark curiosity, provoke thought, and deepen the emotional resonance of a piece. For Fifer’s fox and hen, As Long As It Takes is not just a title—it’s a promise, a question, and a story waiting to unfold