As an artist, your work deserves to be seen—but without a website, you could be missing out on opportunities to showcase, sell, and promote your art to a wider audience. Whether you’re looking to build your own website or hire a professional to do it for you, knowing where to start can feel overwhelming.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the key steps to creating an artist website that reflects your style, engages your audience, and helps you grow your art business.
Overwhelmed and not sure where to start? Download my free guide on what to consider when getting an artist website built here.
Why Do Artists Need a Website?
Relying on social media alone isn’t enough. An artist website gives you:
- A professional portfolio – Showcase your work in a space you fully control.
- An online store – Sell original artwork, prints, and commissions without platform fees.
- A marketing tool – Promote exhibitions, workshops, and collaborations.
- A way to connect – Grow your audience and collect emails for future sales and opportunities.
Step 1: Choose the Right Website Platform
The first decision is whether to use a website builder (DIY) or hire a web designer.
DIY Website Builders for Artists
If you prefer to build your own site, here are some great platforms:
- Squarespace – Easy to use, stylish templates, and built-in e-commerce.
- Wix – Drag-and-drop editor with customisable artist-friendly templates.
- Shopify – Best for artists focused on e-commerce and selling work online.
- WordPress + WooCommerce – More flexible but requires some technical knowledge. This is the combination I used for this case study.
If you’d rather focus on your art and let a professional handle the tech side, hiring a web designer ensures a tailored, stress-free setup.
Step 2: Plan Your Website Structure
A well-structured site makes it easy for visitors to explore your work and make purchases. Your website should include:
- Home Page – A visually engaging introduction to your work.
- About Page – Your artist bio, journey, and creative philosophy.
- Shop (if selling art) – Listings with pricing, descriptions, and shipping details.
- Portfolio/Gallery – High-quality images of your best work.
- Exhibitions/Workshops – Details of upcoming events or courses.
- Contact Page – A simple way for clients, galleries, or buyers to reach you.
Step 3: Showcase Your Work Professionally
Your website should be visual-first and showcase your art in the best possible way. Follow these steps to ensure this is the case:
- Use High-Quality Images – Invest in professional photography or scan artwork at high resolution.
- Organise by Category – Sort your portfolio by collections, themes, or mediums.
- Add Image Descriptions – Include artwork titles, dimensions, materials, and pricing (if selling).
Good visuals make a difference—your website should feel like an online gallery.
Step 4: Set Up E-Commerce (If Selling Your Art)
If you want to sell artwork, prints, or commissions, your website needs a seamless buying process.
- Choose a Payment System – Stripe, PayPal, or Shopify for secure transactions.
- Define Shipping Policies – Be clear about delivery times, packaging, and costs.
- Automate Inventory – Track stock levels and remove sold items automatically.
If you’re unsure about e-commerce setup, working with a web designer can help you create a professional, hassle-free shop.
Step 5: Optimise for Search & Promotion
Your website won’t attract visitors automatically—you need to help people find it!
- SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) – Use relevant keywords like “abstract paintings for sale” or “handmade ceramic art”.
- Start a Blog – Share behind-the-scenes insights, creative processes, or exhibition updates.
- Collect Emails – Offer a free download or exclusive discounts to grow your mailing list.
Having a strong SEO strategy ensures your website reaches buyers, collectors, and galleries.
Step 6: Maintain & Update Your Site Regularly
A successful artist website isn’t a one-time project—it needs regular updates.
- Keep your portfolio fresh – Add new work and remove outdated pieces.
- Update your shop – Adjust pricing, availability, and special offers.
- Post new content – Share blog posts, exhibition news, or creative insights.
If keeping your site up to date feels overwhelming, consider hiring a professional for website maintenance and updates.
Final Thoughts: Should You Build Your Own Website or Hire a Professional?
Building your own website is a great option if you enjoy DIY projects and have the time to learn. However, if you want a fully customised site, seamless e-commerce, and expert SEO, hiring a professional can save time and ensure your website is set up for success.
- Overwhelmed and not sure where to start? Download my free guide on what to consider when getting an artist website built here.
- Need help building a website? I specialise in websites for artists—designed to showcase your work beautifully and help you sell more online. Check out my artist website services here!
FREE Work-Life Balance Blueprint
Ready to achieve work-life balance and thrive as a wellness entrepreneur? Download your free Work-Life Balance Blueprint and get practical tools to simplify your operations, reclaim your time, and prioritise your well-being.
Hello!
With over 23 years of experience helping businesses thrive through streamlined operations, strategic planning, and exceptional team collaboration, I specialise in supporting purpose-driven entrepreneurs and wellness practitioners—visionaries like you who are committed to healing, teaching, and inspiring others.
My career journey has been a rich tapestry of roles across content strategy, project management, and client success, giving me a unique ability to translate big ideas into actionable results.
But my passion goes beyond systems and strategies. I’m dedicated to empowering wellness businesses to scale sustainably while staying true to their values. As a fellow creative and wellness advocate (I’m also a yoga and meditation teacher), I understand the delicate balance between the practical demands of business and the deep desire to make an impact.
Let’s work together to take your wellness business to the next level—because when your operations are thriving, so are you.
Want to work with me?
I’m looking forward to meeting you and discussing your current business challenges!
Related Articles
Related
Slow Down to Look Up
Last night, I caught something magical through my window—the Northern Lights (aurora borealis), dancing across the sky in waves of soft green light. I'd missed any mention of it an, no alert pinged my phone. I just happened to glance up at the right moment. It took my...
When Learning Becomes Avoidance
Have you ever bought an online course, full of excitement and big intentions, only to leave it half-finished while you chase down another? You’re not alone. I have a confession to make - this is something I am massively guilty of, to the point that I have put off...
Don’t Hustle: Why Your Business Is More Like a Garden Than a To-Do List
We live in a world that glorifies overnight success and constant hustle. But if you're a heart-led entrepreneur, coach, or creative, you probably already know deep down—your business isn’t something to push. It’s something to nurture.Think of your business like a...