Essential Pages for an Artist Website: A Practical Guide

A guide for artists building their online presence emphasizes the importance of a well-structured website as a portfolio and business foundation. Key pages include an artwork gallery with titles, descriptions, and consistent image sizing (e.g., 1350x1080 pixels for Instagram compatibility). An artist biography and statement should be separate, with a resume, exhibition list, and portrait. A contact form is recommended over exposing email and phone to avoid spam. Newsletter registration is crucial for converting fans into buyers; alternatives to Mailchimp like Mailerlite are suggested due to Mailchimp halving its free tier contacts to 500. A blog can repurpose Instagram content and embed YouTube videos. Social media links should be prominently displayed. A webstore facilitates sales, though some artists fear appearing too commercial. A shipping page should include insurance company name, return rules, packaging photos, and certificate of authenticity details. Additional pages include a members-only area for collectors, press page with downloadable materials, testimonials, FAQ, commission details, events calendar, privacy policy, and a downloadable PDF portfolio. The guide also references SEO for artists and backlinks.