Artists Website: 8 Things An Artists Websites Should Include

An artists website is essential to showcase all artists work and connect with potential clients. But what should artists websites include to make it effective and professional? Here are some tips to help you create an artist’s websites that reflects your artistic vision and personality.

1- Relevant Domain Name

A clear and catchy domain name. Your domain name is the first thing that people will see when they visit your website, so make sure it is easy to remember, spell and pronounce. Ideally, it should be your name or your artist’s name, followed by .com or another relevant extension. Avoid using numbers, hyphens or other symbols that might confuse your visitors.

2- Clear Navigation

A simple and intuitive navigation. Artist’s websites should be easy to navigate, with clear menus and links that guide your visitors to the most important pages. You should have a home page that introduces yourself and your work, a portfolio page that showcases your best pieces, a contact page that provides your email address and social media links, and a blog page that updates your audience on your latest projects and news. You can also add other pages that are relevant to your niche, such as a shop page, a testimonials page or a press page.

3- Clear Design

A consistent and attractive design. Artist’s websites should reflect your artistic style and personality, with colors, fonts and images that match your brand identity. You should also make sure that your website is responsive, meaning that it adapts to different screen sizes and devices. You can use a website builder or a template to create your artists website or hire a professional web designer if you want more customisation and control.

4- Portfolio

A high-quality and diverse portfolio. Your portfolio is the most important part of your artists website, as it showcases your skills and talents to potential clients and fans. You should include a variety of pieces that demonstrate your range and versatility, as well as your personal style and voice. You should also provide some context for each piece, such as the title, the medium, the size, the date and the story behind it. You can also add some testimonials or reviews from previous clients or collaborators to boost your credibility.

5- Bio

A compelling and authentic bio. Your bio is the opportunity to tell your story and connect with your visitors on a personal level. You should write in a friendly and professional tone, using the first person and avoiding jargon or clichés. You should include some basic information about yourself, such as your name, location, education and awards, as well as some details about your artistic journey, inspiration and goals. You can also add a photo of yourself or your studio to make it more engaging.

6- Artists Statement

An artist statement is a written description of your work that aims to inform, connect, and present the basis for the work. It can summarise what you make and why you make it and explain your choice of mediums or what they intend to convey. It can also reflect on the process, purpose of the work, and represent you through a personal voice. An artist statement can be used for various purposes, such as introducing a single piece of art or an entire portfolio, engaging with an audience, or applying for grants or exhibitions.

7- A Call to Action

A call to action and a newsletter sign-up form. Artist’s websites should not only showcase their work but also encourage visitors to act and stay in touch with the artist. You should have a clear call to action on every page that invites your visitors to contact you for inquiries, commissions, or collaborations. You should also have a newsletter sign-up form that allows your visitors to subscribe to your email list and receive updates on your work and news. You can use an email marketing service such as Mailerlite* or a plugin to create and manage your newsletter.

8- CV

Artists CV. Recommended but not required unless you have the basic content requirements. An artist’s CV is a document that showcases your artistic achievements and qualifications. It is different from a standard CV as it focuses on your artistic practice and career. You can use it to apply for exhibitions, residencies, grants, academic positions and other opportunities in the art world. An artist’s CV typically includes the following sections:

• Contact information: Your name, email address, phone number and website or portfolio link.
• Professional summary: A brief introduction to your artistic background, skills and goals.
• Education: Your academic degrees, training programs and courses related to art or art history. Include the name of the institution, the degree title, the year of graduation and any honors or awards.
• Exhibitions: A list of solo and group exhibitions you have participated in or curated. Include the year, the exhibition title, the venue name and location and the name of the curator if applicable.
• Collections: A list of public or private collections that own or have acquired your work. Include the year, the name of the collector or institution and the location if relevant.
• Awards: A list of any prizes, grants, fellowships or scholarships you have received for your artistic work. Include the year, the name of the award and the organization that granted it.
• Press and publications: A list of any articles, books, catalogues, reviews or interviews that feature your work or that you have written or contributed to. Include the year, the title of the publication, the author or editor name and the publisher or media outlet name.
• Commissions: A list of any commissioned projects you have completed or are working on. Include the year, the name of the commissioner and a brief description of the project.
• Residencies: A list of any residencies you have attended or are attending. Include the year, the name and location of the residency and a brief description of your activities there.
• Other relevant experience: Any other information that demonstrates your artistic skills and achievements, such as gallery education, guest lectures, workshops, memberships, collaborations, or volunteer work.
• An artist’s CV should be concise, clear and professional. It should highlight your most relevant and impressive accomplishments and showcase your unique artistic voice. It should also be updated regularly to reflect your current practice and achievements

The Artists Website

These are some of the essential elements, and one not so essential element, that artists websites should include to make it professional and effective. By following these tips, you can create an artist’s website that showcases your work, builds your reputation and grows your audience.

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