We live in a time where it’s easy to connect with people around the globe and share information. As an artist, using this technology to your advantage can build bridges and open new doors. If your asking yourself “But where do I even start?” you’ve come to the right place! Here are some quick tips to start building your online presence in the art community.

1. Find a unique name for yourself whether it be John Doe Art or Doe Designs. Make it stand out. Google the name you think you might want and see what comes up. Are there other Doe Designs out there? If so think of changing yours or adding something like a middle initial. Get creative and make yourself stand out from all the other Johns and Janes out there.
2. Use social media to your advantage and showcase your work. Keep your username the same across all platforms so you are easily found. Make yourself accessible.
   

   Shown above, a quick Google search of lead concept artist, Matt Rhodes, shows all of his social media accounts, examples of his art, and his personal website right at the top. He keeps the same username for all accounts.

3. Get an ArtStation account, if you’re interested in being involved with games, films, and entertainment! ArtStation allows professional and student artists showcase their portfolios, view other artists work, and allows you to connect with new opportunities. There are contests you can join like last year’s ILM Art Department Challenge. They even have lists of current job openings at companies like Naughty Dog and Industrial Light and Magic!
4. Keep your name easily remembered and recognizable for both your website and social media accounts so everything is under one roof.
5. Build your own website. Try to get your own domain if it’s in your budget. This keeps the domain short and easy for viewers to remember.
6. Create categories you want on the website in advance like Photography, Paintings, or Drawings. Make a rough layout of what you want. Its easier than going in blind.
7. Make it personal. Ask yourself what you want the viewer to think of you when looking at your website. Who is your target audience? How can you appeal to this audience? What is the purpose of your website? Do you want to sell ceramic pieces or showcase your skills to potential employers? What kind of feel should the website have?
8. K.I.S.S. Keep it simple, stupid! You want to showcase your art on the website, so the design of it shouldn’t overpower your work. If you really want some bold beautiful designs keep them on the main page and leave the art sections simple with a solid color background (preferably white). Your artwork should be able to speak for itself without the use of excess graphics or designs.
9. Take a look at other artist’s websites for inspiration if you’re stuck. See what kind of information they have or don’t have. Ask yourself if their website works or not. Can you implement anything in your own website? Is their artwork being showcased or the website design? By looking at other successful or unsuccessful websites you can figure out what you want in yours.
10. Have your contact information easily found. This is key especially if you want to sell products or show your portfolio to potential employers.

Did I miss something that you think should be included? Leave it in the comments below!

Until next week!

~Jordan