In the past, artists have been reluctant to venture online. They feel like art is meant to be showcased in traditional environments. However, over the years, it’s become clear that even artists need an internet presence in order to be successful. With that being said, it’s critically important that you understand the dos and don’ts of web design so that your website is as effective as possible.
5 Tips to Heed
As you build your WordPress website in an effort to increase business, showcase your portfolio, and monetize your artwork, there are some things you need to keep in mind. Specifically, you’ll want to apply the following tips:
1. Secure a Professional Domain
You won’t be taken seriously if you have a URL that looks like this: myartwebsite.blogspot.com. You need a branded domain with a .com extension to be viewed in a professional light. While it’ll cost you a few dollars to buy a domain and register it with a host, this is money well spent in the long run.
2. Hone in On Your Passion
Your website is an extension of your career. You can’t look at is an afterthought or secondary issue. Just as you do in your career, you need to set goals and let your energy shine through.
“Hard work, passion and dedication. They are going to take you a long way to achieving your goals,” writes Albert Scaglione, founder of Park West Gallery, the largest art dealer in the world. “You have to be passionate and be willing to work your butt off.”
In terms of web design, you should set goals about things that get you most excited. What are you passionate about and how can you ensure your website visitors see this?
3. Include the Appropriate Sections
Every successful website has a few important sections and pages. This includes a biography page, artist statement, gallery or portfolio, contact information, and blog. There are certainly other elements you can add, but these sections should be considered mandatory for success.
4. Choose the Right Theme
Unless you’re going to pay someone to design your website from scratch, chances are you’ll end up using a theme. Website themes are cost effective and incredibly versatile, so this is a smart choice. Just make sure you choose the right one.
In this article, you’ll find some of the top WordPress themes that are specifically designed with artists in mind. Each theme can be tested prior to purchase, which makes it easy for you to see which one works best in your situation.
5. Don’t Overdo It
It’s amazing how talented artists can be so skilled at a particular specialty such as drawing, painting, or sculpting, yet lack an eye for proper web design. And while it would seem that artists would naturally be good web designers, many art websites are actually poorly designed. In many cases, this is a direct result of information overload.
When designing your website, follow the KISS acronym which says Keep it Simple Stupid. The goal is to do more with less. If you feel like your website is oversaturated with information, then find a way to cut back and eliminate unnecessary elements. Today’s leading websites are simple and straightforward. There’s no reason to go overboard with superfluous features and designs.
Build an Effective Website
As an artist, your website is essentially your virtual studio. If you want to expose your work to the masses and monetize your efforts, then you must invest in quality web design that properly showcases your work in the appropriate light. Leverage these five tips and you’ll be well on your way to success.