When an artist signs his/her work - have they painted themselves into a corner?

Literally no, technically, yes, or at least they have painted themselves ONTO a corner. Painting yourself into a corner, however gives a connotation of being trapped, however when an artist signs a picture, he/she is usually finished so, they are free to go onto another project!

A painting belongs to a perticular artist as long as he/she works on it till done. Once an artist signs his name on that artpiece the painting doesn't "belong" to such artist any more but tor the public at large; for everybody to enjoy and share. Signing becomes necessary to distinguish one from the other; specially in cases where the artist have similar subjects and style. For some , signing the artwork is one big ego trip, while others prefer not to sign them and enjoys being away from the limelight. Sining the painting is also a marketing tool and way of getting noticed.To some , success in art is lergely dependent on your contact and marketing skills.

Good question, but not always. We have a painting in the state park where I work where the artist signed his name in the middle of the painting... as the name of the boat.

Literally? No. Figuratively? Still no. They have, however, painted their name into a corner, if that's even where they sign it.

oh definitely.. I've done it several times myself... last time I painted myself into a corner , fell asleep.. and had to be rescued by a neighbor with a can of paint thinner... unfortunately the cat had also fallen asleep.... jeez I never knew paint thinner was dangerous for cats... uh oh... don't tell Peta

Only if they are painting a floor.

They close the way for others to follow but open a path all their own.

YES they have. I like your way of thinking.

harty har har

ba-dum-bum.